Radiochemist

University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR)

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) is seeking a Radiochemist to join our Innovative Development & Translation (&T) division. The &T division at MURR focuses on advancing radioisotope production methodologies with an emphasis on their translatability into current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) standards. Core objectives of the &T division include: first, developing innovative and scalable radioisotope production techniques; second, optimizing and continuously improving existing isotope production lines at MURR to address any emergent issues;

third, providing support to MURR's research groups through a blend of technical expertise, collaborative projects, and tailored solutions; and fourth, evaluating new opportunities and managing new projects that will become the foundation of tomorrow's growth and success.

This position will report to the Developmental Radiochemistry Senior Manager and will be responsible for developing radioisotope processing methods with a focus on radioisotope separations for the manufacturing of new cGMP medical radioisotopes to be used as Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) in radiopharmaceutical formulations.

Key Duties Performed by This Position Will Include

• Design, implement, and optimize radioisotope production and separation methods using the University of Missouri Research Reactor.
• Lead radioisotope process development projects of moderate to high complexity and manage resources accordingly.
• Develop novel radioisotope manufacturing methodologies in collaboration with &T team members to ensure suitability for translation into current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) compatible processes for medical grade radioisotope production.
• Conduct radioisotope separations to support the development of new radioisotope processes.
• Perform radio analytical tests, and lead or assist in developing new quality control methods (e.g., gamma spectroscopy, ICP-MS, ICP-OES), including (radio) chromatography techniques (e.g., HPLC, IC, TLC).
• Collaborate with the members of other groups (i.e., Change Control & Translation, Developmental Engineering) within the Innovative Development & Translation division and other groups within MURR to understand the specific needs of each radioisotope development project.
• Lead or assist in developing SOPs and relevant technical documentation required for radioisotope process development and quality control methodologies.
• Perform research-grade radioisotope processing to produce high-quality radioisotope precursors to support researchers in MU and other research facilities across the US.
• Lead or assist in developing investigations and performing analyses to resolve issues that may arise in existing radio chemical production methodologies at MURR.
• Conduct detailed literature reviews to stay abreast of the latest advancements in isotope production, radiochemistry, radioisotope, and radiopharmaceutical development.
• Ensure compliance with all safety protocols and regulations related to radioisotope handling and production.
• Train staff on radio chemical procedures and safety protocols.

Successful candidates will be persuasive communicators with exceptional organizational and time management skills. They must demonstrate the following durable skills: leadership, character, collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, mindfulness, growth mindset, and fortitude. Additionally, customer service, confidentiality, integrity, and a commitment to university values in their activities.

Must be available for reliable and consistent onsite work.

Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 5:00PM

Doctoral degree in related/relevant area and at least 3 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry, Radiopharmacy, Analytical Chemistry, or related field.
• Experience or familiarity with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) in medical isotopes or/and radiopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Prior experience in lanthanide and actinide radioisotope separations.
• Strong understanding of nuclear reactions and radiation safety.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety in a laboratory setting.

Salary Range: $117,000 to $163,904 per year

Grade: GGS M15

University

Title:

Radiochemist

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