Chemistry Student Research Assistant (On-site)

TRIUMF•Vancouver, BC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

TRIUMF's Life Sciences Division is seeking an undergraduate chemistry student to contribute to pioneering research in radiopharmaceuticals for cancer imaging and therapy as part of a collaborative project with the University of Alberta. The student will join the synthetic effort to develop a novel radiotracer aimed at targeting a broad spectrum of cancers, including late-stage metastatic types, using advanced radioisotopes with strong clinical potential. This role offers an exceptional opportunity to work within one of the world’s leading radiopharmaceutical research environments, surrounded by experts in nuclear medicine and radiochemistry. Through this high-impact research, the student will gain hands-on experience in radiotracer development for emerging therapeutic targets with the potential to transform cancer treatment worldwide. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of radiotracers for cancer imaging and therapy through both the synthesis and radiolabeling of radiotracer precursors, as well as the purification and characterization of synthetic intermediates. The role will involve applying an exploratory approach to optimize reaction conditions, with the goal of refining radiotracer components for subsequent evaluation in preclinical radiopharmaceutical studies. A primary focus will be the use of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for purification and analysis, alongside structural characterization using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Under the direct supervision of TRIUMF scientists, the candidate will plan and execute experiments, product purification, and analyze data to guide ongoing development. This hands-on experience will provide valuable insight into both the practical and scientific aspects of radiotracer development within a leading research environment.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an undergraduate chemistry program or related field.
Foundational knowledge in organic synthesis, purification, and characterization.
Strong analytical skills and experience with data collection, documentation, and report writing.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team and under the supervision of senior scientists.
Demonstrated passion for scientific inquiry, innovation, and solving complex challenges.
Analytical Chemistry
Chemical Synthesis
Radiochemistry
Radioisotopes
Radiopharmaceuticals
Researching
Teamwork

Nice To Haves

Skills to be gained: Technical Skills Development: Gain hands-on experience in the purification and analytical characterization of synthetic intermediates and radiotracer precursors using HPLC, alongside structural elucidation using NMR spectroscopy. Develop practical skills in sample preparation and handling for radiotracer development workflows.
Understanding of Synthetic and Radiochemical Processes: Build experience supporting synthetic chemistry activities related to radiotracer precursor development, with exposure to the integration of chemical synthesis and radiolabeling strategies in a research setting.
Data Analysis and Interpretation: Develop the ability to interpret NMR spectra and chromatographic data, maintain detailed experimental records, and organize analytical datasets to support decision-making and ongoing optimization.
Research Workflow and Experimental Design: Strengthen skills in preparing materials, assisting with experimental workflows, and contributing to the efficient execution of radiotracer development studies.
Communication and Presentation Skills: Enhance written and oral communication through the preparation of internal reports and presentations summarizing analytical findings and research progress.

Responsibilities

Synthesize key intermediates to develop a targeted radiotracer for cancer imaging and therapy.
Plan, execute, and refine radiolabeling routes for radiotracer components under the guidance of TRIUMF scientists.
Perform radiosynthesis, purification, and product characterization, while documenting findings in detailed reports.
Present findings in both internal and external presentations to communicate progress and results.