Radiopharmaceutical Chemist

Department

BSD RAD - Cyclotron

About the Department

The Cyclotron and Radiopharmaceutical Facility at the University of Chicago produces radioisotopes and manufactures radiopharmaceuticals for clinical research and preclinical use. The Facility holds its own FDA-approved Investigational New Drug (IND) application for one human use and is listed on at least three other INDs for manufacturing PET radiopharamceuticals for clinical trials in humans. Additionally, we have numerous research projects involving new radioisotopes and radiopharmaceutical development across the University, The UChicago Comprehensive Cancer Center (UCCCC), and other institutions in the Chicago area. For the position that we are considering, the applicant needs to have skills in 1) chemistry and process chemistry, 2) radiochemistry and radiopharmaceutical research, 3) analytical methods and techniques for characterization and quality control of radiopharmaceuticals, 4) willingness to work with large quantities of radioactivity, and 5) and clear ability to work in a complex, sometimes high-stress, and multiple-worker environment, for example, a pharmaceutical production facility would all be appropriate.

Job Summary

The job manages scientific research projects or scientific research facilities. Uses considerable on-the-job experience to ensure compliance of research activities with institutional, state, and federal regulatory policies. Works independently to write articles, reports and manuscripts, and presents research findings at meetings and/or conferences.

For the position that we are considering, the applicant needs to have skills in 1) synthetic chemistry, pharmaceutical or radiopharmaceutical research and production, 2) analytical techniques for molecular characterization and quality control, 3) experience in working in high levels of radiation and with large amounts of radioactivity is very desirable, but not required, and 4) and clear ability to work in a complex, sometimes high-stress, and multiple-worker environment, for example, a pharmaceutical production facility would all be appropriate, and 5) ability to write research reports, develop and follow Standard Operating Procedures.

Primary functions of this role include but are not limited to develop and validate processes for producing radiopharmaceuticals following appropriate regulatory guidelines, including synthesis, purification, formulation, and quality control, contribute to developing novel radiotracers and radiopharmaceuticals for molecular imaging and therapy, including radiotheranostics, participates in maintaining the radiopharmaceutical facility for regulatory compliance, and also contributes to direct quality control analysis of final radiopharmaceutical products. Additionally, our ideal candidate must also be able to work with large quantities of radioactivity and in radiation environments with appropriate radiation safety precautions.

Responsibilities

• Production of established and new radiopharmaceuticals for preclinical and human use.  Includes preparation of solvents, reagents, and ancillaries required for the synthesis and QC.

• Support various research projects involving imaging and/or therapeutic radionuclides, and radiolabeling of small molecules, peptides, and biologicals. Includes radiochemical processing of various radiometals and subsequent radiolabeling of desired molecules.

• Performs work with (not all are required) aseptic procedures, microbiological procedures, handling of highly radioactive pharmaceutical products, DOT procedure.

• Writes, proofreads, and develops Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC); Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) if necessary.

• Oversees maintenance and production schedules with the accelerator and its subsystems, running the machine on an intermittent basis.

• Uses subject matter and best practices knowledge to perform lab and/or research-related duties and tasks. Works independently to assist with project design.

• Solves complex problems relating to the administration of projects, including planning new procedures, adapting existing procedures to the needs of the project, and making significant contributions to methodology.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 5-7 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Master’s degree in a related field.

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