Senior Scientist, Radiochemistry

Role Summary

Senior Scientist, Radiochemistry responsible for hands-on radiolabeling of antibodies and antibody fragments with radiometals, conjugation of biomolecules with metal chelators, and supporting preclinical research activities in cancer theranostics and translational development. Serves as Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) for the site and ensures compliance with radiation safety regulations and internal practices.

Responsibilities

• Radiochemistry & Conjugation
  • Perform and optimize radiolabeling of antibodies and antibody fragments with therapeutic and diagnostic radiometals (e.g., 177-Lu, 225-Ac, 89-Zr, 64-Cu, etc.).
  • Contribute chemical conjugation of antibodies with metal chelators (e.g., DOTA, DOTAGA, DTPA, DFO, MACROPA).
  • Develop reproducible and scalable labeling protocols for preclinical and translational applications.
  • Design and execute quality control assays (HPLC, iTLC, SEC, SDS-PAGE).
  • Develop and transfer analytical methods to support preclinical studies and CMC activities.
• Protein Biochemistry
  • Apply biochemical expertise in antibody/protein handling, purification, and characterization.
  • Assess protein integrity and stability following conjugation and radiolabeling.
  • Support analytical method development for protein-radiometal conjugates.
• Preclinical & Development Support
  • Collaborate with in-vivo biology team to support in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Provide input into CMC scale-up activities.
  • Contribute to IND-enabling activities, including process documentation and technology transfer.
• Radiation Safety
  • Serve as the site’s Radiation Safety Officer (RSO).
  • Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal radiation safety regulations.
  • Implement radiation safety procedures, train laboratory staff, and maintain required records and licenses.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • Bachelors plus 8+ years, Masters plus 6+ years, or Ph.D. plus 5+ years in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Radiochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field.
  • 3+ years of laboratory experience in radiolabeling of biologics, metal chelator chemistry, and related QC techniques.
  • Strong background in protein biochemistry, including antibody purification, conjugation, and characterization.
  • Experience with analytical methods commonly applied in radiopharmaceutical and protein characterization.
  • Prior or current qualification as Radiation Safety Officer (or equivalent experience).
  • Knowledge of regulations governing radiation safety.
  • Strong documentation, organizational, and communication skills.
• Preferred:
  • Experience with preclinical radiopharmaceutical development in oncology.
  • Familiarity with CMC scale-up activities and regulatory documentation.
  • Experience with GMP or GLP environments.
• Job Competencies / Behaviors
  • Safety Mindset: Adheres to radiation safety protocols and laboratory best practices.
  • Scientific Rigor: Detail-oriented and methodical in experimental design, execution, and data analysis.
  • Collaboration: Works effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Accountability: Takes ownership of projects and responsibilities.
  • Adaptability: Adjusts to evolving project priorities and regulatory requirements.
  • Problem-Solving: Approaches challenges with creativity and persistence.
  • Communication: Clearly communicates results, documentation, and regulatory materials.