Radiochemist

Hiring Department

MURR Innovative Development and Translation (ID&T)

A life-saving operation in the middle of America — the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) — needs you to help guide its future. MURR is expanding its critical cancer-fighting and medical isotope production.

MURR’s reactor is the highest-power university research reactor in the United States, operating at 10 megawatts, 6.5 days a week and 52 weeks a year. The MURR facility enables research across many disciplines – from investigating ancient cultures and how plants respond to their environment, to analyzing industrial materials and developing radiopharmaceuticals that have lifesaving clinical applications. The MURR facility is a reliable resource for researchers, scientists, engineers and students across the country.

Be a part of the future of fighting cancer and saving lives.

Be a part of MURR

Job Description

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) is seeking a Radiochemist to join our Innovative Development and Translation (ID&T) division. The ID&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 ID&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 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 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 that are suitable for translation into current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) radiopharmaceutical production processes.
• Conduct radioisotope separations to support the development of new radioisotope processes.
• Perform radioanalytical tests and develop new quality control methods (gamma spectroscopy, ICP-MS, ICP-OES), including (radio)chromatography techniques (HPLC, IC, TLC).
• Collaborate with the members of other groups (i.e., Change Control & Translation, Developmental Engineering) within the ID&T division 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 radiochemical 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 radiochemical 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.

Shift

Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Minimum Qualifications

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

Preferred Qualifications

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

Anticipated Hiring Range

Hiring Salary Range: $117,104 to $135,000
Grade: GGS-M15
University Title: Radiochemist

Community Information

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours’ drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County’s largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.