"Research Assistant (Production Radiochemist)"

Job Description

The National University of Singapore invites applications for Research Assistant (Production Radiochemist) in the Clinical Imaging Research Centre (CIRC), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. CIRC is a dedicated molecular imaging research centre equipped with on-site capability for the preparation of PET radiopharmaceuticals in a state-of-the-art GMP-certified facility. It supports both academic and commercially led clinical research programs with advanced modalities of PET-CT and PET-MRI. For more details, visit https://medicine.nus.edu.sg/circ/. Appointments are on a two-year contract basis with possible extension.

Purpose of the Post

The Production Radiochemist at CIRC is responsible for routine production of radiopharmaceuticals in a Clean Room environment, complying with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP). This includes assisting in method development and validation of new radiopharmaceuticals, preparing standard operating procedures (SOPs), and other quality documentation. The role ensures high operational uptime, regulatory compliance, and upholds patient and product safety standards.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform radiolabelling of peptides, antibodies, or small molecules using radionuclides such as Lu-177, Ga-68, F-18, etc.
• Prepare and review batch records, lab notebooks, SOPs, and other documents.
• Assist with emergency maintenance and calibration of radiochemistry synthesis and dispensing modules (e.g., Scintomics, iPhase, Trasis).
• Support deviation investigations, CAPAs, and change control implementations.
• Perform ad-hoc clean room activities, including cleaning, stock inventory, and environmental monitoring.
• Safe handling of radioactive materials including hazardous waste disposal.
• Work flexible hours, shifts, or weekends based on production schedules and isotope half-lives.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Head of Department in accordance with GMP and safety regulations.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Personnel should be willing to work with radioactive materials, able to read, listen, and understand technical direction and procedures, and able to lift heavy loads (up to 14kg with both hands).

Qualifications

• Have a minimum of BSc degree in Synthetic Organic/Inorganic/Medical Chemistry or a related science discipline.
• Practical experiences in general laboratory techniques, such as analytical balance operations, pipetting, pH measurement, and reagents preparation.
• Experiences in pharmaceutical production under GMP is an added advantage.
• Experiences in radiolabelling and purification techniques with short-lived radioisotopes (F-18, C-11, Ga-68) or Lu-177 is highly desirable.
• Proven ability to work independently with minimum supervision and as a constructive team player.
• Require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
• Those with no experience but with relevant academic and skills will be considered.
• Ability to perform first-line troubleshooting and minor repairs on automated modules (e.g., replacing tubing, valves, connectors, heaters).
• Ability to read technical manuals, interpret wiring diagrams, and communicate effectively with engineers.