Postdoctoral Research Associate – Radiochemistry (Isotope Production)

The Brookhaven National Laboratory Isotope Research and Production Department prepares certain commercially unavailable radioisotopes for distribution to the nuclear medicine community and industry and performs research to develop new radioisotopes for nuclear medicine investigators. The program also performs irradiations for non-isotope applications, sells by-products, and explores opportunities for new products and radioisotope applications.

Position Description: 

The BNL Isotope Research & Production Department (IP) has an opening for a 2-year term Postdoctoral Research Associate to participate in multidisciplinary research projects with focus on the production, processing, and purification of medical and research radioisotopes. The successful candidate is expected to have excellent knowledge of radiochemical separations and the ability to collaborate with other members of the group. Collaborations with colleagues in other departments and/or at other institutions are encouraged. This role offers a robust suite of professional development opportunities both within and outside of the laboratory, with the potential to assist in preparing funding proposals. As one of the premier institutions in the world with access to a 200 MeV proton accelerator, host of hot cell suites and a 19 MeV cyclotron, the successful candidate can pursue unique isotope production pathways. BNL IP is committed to ensuring a safe work environment where researchers freely discuss ideas and feel empowered to take intellectual risks. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Participate in proposing experiments to aid the IP program mission 

• Planning experiments that satisfy safety requirements and operational constraints 

• Develop and test methods for the separation and purification of radionuclides of interest  

• Document experimental results and prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals 

• Prepare presentations to summarize research findings for internal and external audiences  

• Follow conduct of operations 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, or a closely related field conferred within the past 5 years or to be completed prior to the starting date. 

•  Experience with radioactive materials and radiochemical techniques or a record of academic training in the field. 

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills. 

• Ability to work with scientific literature to summarize project-relevant information 

• Ability to work independently 

• Ability to follow written procedures and manuals 

• Demonstrated ability to successfully collaborate with other researchers 

• Effective communication, including writing, speaking, and interpersonal communication 

• Ability to work after hours on planned occasions 

• Excellent command of MS Office applications 

Preferred Knowledge Skills or Abilities: 

• Experience with separation techniques such as ion-chromatography, precipitation, solvent  extraction, etc. 

• Experience with radioisotope production and purification  

• Experience with radiolabeling complexes 

• Familiarity with hot cell or glovebox operations. 

• Experience in AI/ML and automation in chemical processes 

• Experience in gamma spectroscopy and techniques of inorganic analytical chemistry 

• Experience in training students or junior personnel 

Additional Information: 

• This is a 2-year term Assignment. 

• BNL policy requires that Postdoctoral Research Associate appointments be made to individuals who have received their doctorate within the past five (5) years. Eligible candidates may not exceed a combined total of five years of relevant post-PHD experience excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness, or other life-changing events. 

Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $71900 - $85000 / year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification, education and experience and considered with the internal peer group.