Post-Doctoral Research Associate: Department of Nuclear Engineering - UTK

University of Tennessee • Knoxville, TN

19h • $70,000 - $75,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise in radiochemistry and molecular imaging to conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the development and evaluation of radiolabeled compounds for imaging and therapeutic applications. The position involves radiolabeling and characterization of imaging and therapeutic agents; performing in vitro cellular assays and in vivo animal studies, including PET/CT imaging, ex vivo biodistribution, and radioligand therapy evaluations; analyzing and interpreting data; and contributing to manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and grant writing efforts. The successful candidate will also mentor graduate and undergraduate students, work effectively within a multidisciplinary research team, and maintain high standards of scientific rigor, documentation, and compliance. This position is grant-funded and is contingent on the continued funding of the grant.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant field (radiochemistry, radiobiology, chemistry, biology, molecular imaging, radiotherapy, or related field)
• Demonstrated expertise in radiolabeling, in vitro, and in vivo experimental techniques.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Proficiency in programming, word processing, and scientific presentation graphics.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Experience mentoring Ph.D., master’s, and undergraduate students.
• Experience in manuscript writing, conference presentations, and grant proposal support.
• Strong team player with excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, and characterize radiolabeled compounds for imaging and therapeutic applications, including radioligand therapies.
• Perform cellular assays including western blotting, flow cytometry (FACS), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), binding and saturation binding studies, and other relevant biochemical assays.
• Conduct animal studies for imaging and therapy, including PET/CT imaging studies, ex vivo biodistribution analyses, radioligand therapy evaluation, study design, execution, and data analysis.
• Analyze experimental data, prepare figures, and present results using appropriate software tools.
• Contribute to manuscript writing, conference presentations, grant proposals, and progress reports.
• Provide guidance and training to Ph.D., master’s, and undergraduate students in research techniques and best practices.
• Work effectively within a multidisciplinary team, maintaining high standards of scientific rigor, documentation, and communication.
• Support grant writing efforts, participate in team meetings, and engage in continuing education to stay current with advances in molecular imaging, radiochemistry, and radiotherapy.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree