Do you enjoy the challenge of performing radiochemistry with novel compounds and the thrill of seeing how these agents perform in vivo? Have you worked with a few isotopes and would like to expand your experience in both radiodiagnostics and molecular targeted radiotherapeutics? As a Research Scientist / Radiochemist at Dana-Farber’s Molecular Cancer Imaging Facility (MCIF) you’ll work in a team setting alongside a fast-growing group of molecular imaging professionals with a diverse range of expertise. You’ll have the chance to contribute to preclinical radiopharmaceutical R&D using small molecules, peptides, proteins, mAbs, and nanoparticles, with applications across a variety of targets. Projects at MCIF offer continuous opportunities to increase your professional network through routine interactions with world renowned Dana-Farber PIs, external academic PIs, start-ups, and industry leaders. MCIF is highly responsive to the requests of our partners/collaborators and offers fast project turn-around times. Studies involving new isotopes and methods are viewed as ways to expand the core’s offering, increase group members’ knowledge base, and stay at the forefront of up-and-coming trends in nuclear medicine and radiochemistry.

The MCIF is adjacent to Dana-Farber’s preclinical imaging facility, allowing evaluation of novel diagnostics and therapeutics in virtually any clinically relevant cancer model in longitudinal treatment studies. This work can be translated to clinic to allow physicians to better diagnose and characterize cancer, choose targeted therapies, monitor treatment efficacy, and improve the outcomes of adult and pediatric cancer patients.

This role reports directly to MCIF’s Scientific Director and entails developing and executing methods for the radiosynthesis and analysis of radiolabeled agents using a variety of isotopes (18F, 11C, 68Ga, 89Zr, 64Cu, 124I, 177Lu, 225Ac, 161Tb, and others) to support ongoing research with both DFCI and external investigators. This position will be based at our Harbor Campus, 27 Dry Dock Avenue, Boston, MA.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high-risk and underserved populations. We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow's physician/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop radiolabeling methods for small molecules and biologics
• Develop chromatographic methods to analyze and purify radiolabeled compounds (HPLC, GC, radio-TLC, et al.)
• Develop formulations suitable for use in animal and human studies
• Conduct in vitro assays to evaluate and optimize stability of radiolabeled compounds
• Translate radiolabeling methods to automated synthesis units
• Aseptically prepare radiolabeled products for preclinical studies
• Conduct quality control testing of products
• Maintain clear and accurate records
• Stay up to date on current literature/radiolabeling methods
• Compose and follow standard operating procedures
• Interpret data, recognize aberrant results, and propose explanations and next steps
• Summarize data for reports, patents, and presentations
• Provide ad-hoc support to other areas of MCIF (cyclotron operations, materials control, cleaning, etc.)

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced degree in chemistry or related field is required (M.S. or Ph.D.).
• Two+ years of post-graduate radiochemistry experience is highly preferred (post-doc or otherwise).

REQUIRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:

• Working knowledge of organic and analytical chemistry
• Working knowledge of radiochemistry and comfort working with radioactive materials
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication skills, including proficiency in English (both written and oral, as demonstrated by publication record)
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize, multitask, and troubleshoot problems
• Demonstrated ability to readily acquire new skills and techniques
• Must be able to lift 45 lbs. (handling of lead and tungsten vial/syringe shields)

PREFERRED SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE:

• Experience with automated radiosynthesis equipment highly preferred
• Experience working with 11C/18F automated processes
• Experience with radiopharmaceutical manufacturing and testing for animal and/or human use
• Experience working in a GMP environment – this knowledge can help guide preclinical R&D strategy
• In your CV or cover letter, please highlight isotope-specific experience, with an emphasis on 18F and 11C as well as 68Ga, 89Zr, 177Lu, and/or 225Ac, and any use of automated synthesis modules.

At Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, we work every day to create an innovative, caring, and inclusive environment where every patient, family, and staff member feels they belong.  As relentless as we are in our mission to reduce the burden of cancer for all, we are equally committed to diversifying our faculty and staff.  Cancer knows no boundaries and when it comes to hiring the most dedicated and diverse professionals, neither do we. If working in this kind of organization inspires you, we encourage you to apply.

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is an equal opportunity employer and affirms the right of every qualified applicant to receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, disability, age, ancestry, military service, protected veteran status, or other groups as protected by law.