Associate Radiochemist

Associate Radiochemist

We are seeking a motivated and developing Associate Radiochemist to join our dynamic team. The successful candidate will support the development, execution, and optimization of radiolabeling, purification, and characterization methods for various compounds for use in preclinical and clinical studies. This role will involve close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including biologists, pharmacologists, and clinicians, to support the development of our radiopharmaceutical products while building expertise in radiochemistry under the guidance of experienced team members.

This position reports to the Senior Radiochemist and is based in Coralville, Iowa. This is a full-time, onsite role requiring regular presence in the laboratory and production environment.

Essential Functions

• Assist with the synthesis, execution, and optimization of radiolabeling methods for compounds (e.g., PET, SPECT, and alpha emitting isotopes) for use in preclinical and clinical studies.
• Perform analytical testing and support the development and execution of analytical methods to assess the radio chemical purity, stability, and quality of radio labeled compounds. Learn and contribute to the establishment of critical quality attributes under supervision.
• Support radiolabeling process development and optimization activities, including identification of critical process parameters, and scale-up efforts for clinical production.
• Follow and support compliance with relevant regulations, including GMP, GLP, radiation safety, and company procedures.
• Maintain accurate records of all experiments, procedures, and results. Assist in the preparation of technical reports, study summaries, and supporting documentation for regulatory submissions.
• Work closely with other departments, including Manufacturing, Pharmacology, and Clinical Development, to support the integration of radiochemistry into the drug development process.
• Uphold strict safety standards in handling radioactive materials and participate in the maintenance of radiation safety procedures and protocols.
• Stay abreast of advancements in radiochemistry and radiopharmaceutical development and actively participate in training and professional development opportunities to expand technical expertise.

Qualifications

• Education:
  
  Bachelor's degree in Radiochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. Master's degree preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will be considered.
• Experience:
  
  1+ years of laboratory, manufacturing, or research experience in a scientific environment required. Experience in radiochemistry, radiopharmaceutical development, pharmaceutical manufacturing, analytical chemistry, or related disciplines is a plus.
• Exposure to or willingness to learn the synthesis and handling of radioactive isotopes (e.g., Pb-203, Pb-212, Ga-68, Cu-64, Cu-67 and F-18).
• Experience with or familiarity with analytical techniques such as HPLC, TLC, GC, NMR, mass spectrometry, or related instrumentation is preferred.
• Experience working in a regulated environment (e.g., GMP, GLP, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, or academic research laboratory) is preferred.
• Experience with automated radiochemistry synthesis modules is desirable but not required.
• Working knowledge of radiopharmaceutical development or a willingness to learn radiopharmaceutical processes and regulatory requirements.

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

• Foundational understanding of chemistry, radiochemistry, engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Interest in learning radiolabeling techniques, purification processes, and radiopharmaceutical development.
• Ability to learn and apply radiation safety principles and procedures.
• Effective communication, including writing, speaking and interpersonal communication.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Organizational and time management skills.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to learn from feedback and work effectively under the guidance of senior scientists and technical staff.
• Basic data…