Radiochemist (Scientist I)

Universities of Wisconsin•Madison, WI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Waisman Center is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge about human development, developmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative diseases throughout the lifespan. One of 15 centers of its kind in the United States, the Waisman Center encompasses laboratories for biomedical and behavioral research, several scientific research cores, and a clinical biomanufacturing facility for the production of pharmaceuticals for early-stage human clinical trials. In addition to its research efforts, the Center provides an array of services to people with developmental disabilities, offers numerous educational and outreach programs to young children and their families, and trains scientists and clinicians who will serve our nation in the future. The Brain Imaging Core at the Waisman Center provides state‑of‑the‑art neuroimaging resources and expertise to support basic, translational, and clinical research focused on brain development, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative disease. The Core offers advanced imaging acquisition, processing, and analysis services, fosters multidisciplinary collaboration among investigators, and supports study design, data interpretation, and dissemination of findings. Through its integrated infrastructure and specialized technical staff, the Brain Imaging Core enables high‑quality, reproducible imaging research that advances the Waisman Center’s mission to improve understanding of human brain function across the lifespan. The Radiochemist will support biomedical research and translational initiatives by designing, synthesizing, and characterizing radiolabeled compounds for use in preclinical and clinical studies. This position will be responsible for developing and optimizing radiochemical methods, maintaining compliance with radiation safety and regulatory requirements, and collaborating closely with investigators and core facilities to support imaging, tracer development, and research. The Radiochemist will contribute to data analysis, documentation, and dissemination of findings, while helping advance grant‑funded projects and the overall research mission of the Waisman Center.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in the synthesis, purification, and characterization of radiolabeled compounds. (e.g., PET or SPECT tracers).
Working knowledge of radiation safety principles and regulatory compliance, including proper handling, storage, documentation, and disposal of radioactive materials.
Experience with analytical and quality control techniques relevant to radiochemistry (e.g., HPLC, radio‑HPLC, TLC, gamma counting).
Ability to design, document, and interpret experiments; maintain accurate laboratory records; and analyze research data.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams.
Ability to work independently under general supervision while managing multiple priorities in a research or core facility environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with PET radiochemistry, including short‑lived radionuclides (e.g., C‑11, F‑18) and automated synthesis modules.
Familiarity with GMP or GLP environments, including documentation practices supporting IND‑enabling or clinical research.
Experience supporting preclinical or human imaging studies in an academic or clinical research setting.
Knowledge of imaging probe development, tracer validation, and translational research workflows.
Experience contributing to grant writing, progress reports, or scholarly publications.

Responsibilities

Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities
Serves as a main point of contact and liaison with internal and external stakeholders providing information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
Assists with the identification of research problems and the development of research methodologies and procedures
Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
Collects and analyzes research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision and limited responsibility