Distinguished Staff Scientist (Cancer Biology and Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Development and Advanc

Distinguished Staff Scientist (Cancer Biology and Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Development and Advancement)

Join Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), in collaboration with the University of Tennessee (UT) Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (ORII) Convergent Research Initiative, as we advance radiopharmaceutical therapies. The position will be with the Isotope Applications Research Group (IARG) within the Radioisotope Science and Technology Division. We seek a Distinguished staff scientist with expertise in cancer cell biology and radio biology to strengthen preclinical therapeutic evaluation, connect tumor biology with radiopharmaceutical development, and support translation of promising approaches toward clinical application.

Research:
The research will focus on advancing radiopharmaceutical therapy, with emphasis on tumor biology and preclinical radio biology. Areas of interest include:
Mechanistic studies of tumor response to radiation and targeted therapeutics, including DNA damage response, cell-cycle regulation, signaling, resistance, and radio sensitization. Development and use of mammalian cancer model systems, including 2D and advanced in vitro approaches, to evaluate therapeutic response in relevant tumor contexts. Evaluation of radiopharmaceutical constructs and targeted delivery platforms that support improved tumor targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and safety.

Quantitative cellular and molecular assays to assess uptake, viability, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, proliferation, biomarker expression, and off-target effects. Integration of cancer biology with radiochemistry, isotope science, dosimetry, imaging, data analysis, and clinical collaborations to support translation.

IARG is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing the production, exploration of fundamental properties, and practical applications of radioisotopes produced prised of experts ranging from nuclear engineers and radio chemists to organic chemists and cell biologists, IARG pushes the boundaries of technology in the production, isolation, and characterization of radionuclides. Their work not only enhances our understanding of these isotopes but also explores their current and potential future applications, which include innovations in nuclear battery development, cutting-edge research in next-generation nuclear reactors, and the advancement of targeted alpha therapy in cancer treatment.

Major Duties/Responsibilities:
Interdisciplinary

Collaboration:

Collaborate with researchers across ORNL, UT, and external partners in cancer biology, radiochemistry, nuclear medicine, radio biology, medical physics, and clinical oncology. Innovative Research:
Conduct research in tumor biology, radio biology, and therapeutic evaluation to improve targeting, efficacy, and understanding of therapeutic response. Translation and Clinical Integration:
Work with university and clinical partners to help move promising radiopharmaceutical and combination therapy concepts from preclinical studies toward clinical applications. Grant Writing and Fundraising:
Seek external funding opportunities and assist in securing research grants, contracts, and philanthropic support to sustain and expand research activities. Publication and Dissemination:
Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at scientific conferences, and engage in outreach activities that enhance the visibility of ORNL, UT, and ORII. Mentorship and Training:
Assist in mentoring graduate students and interns, offering guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to cultivate a skilled research team.

Basic Qualifications:

PhD or equivalent degree in cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, radio biology, radiation oncology, or a related field, with 10+ years of relevant experience within the field. Expertise in cancer biology and one or more related areas such as radio biology, molecular oncology, therapeutic response assays, molecular imaging, targeted delivery, or radiopharmaceutical therapy. Strong record of research accomplishments evidenced by publications, presentations, technical contributions, or other…