Senior Radiochemist

UT MD Anderson Cancer Center•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Senior Radiochemist supports safe, efficient cyclotron and radiochemistry operations, applying knowledge of cyclotron operation and radioisotope production using a particle accelerator. The role monitors cyclotron performance, helps maintain and improve equipment uptime, supports facility projects, and coordinates operational schedules with facility personnel. The position troubleshoots cyclotron and radiochemistry equipment, performs or supports maintenance and repairs, and works with technical and professional staff to resolve problems and improve operations. It requires working safely in regulated environments involving high voltage and radiation exposure risks, following the facility radioactive materials license, established procedures, and quality management system requirements. The Senior Radiochemist contributes to equipment reliability, continuous improvement, customer satisfaction, and overall facility performance. A bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field and five years of experience in PET radiopharmaceutical manufacturing and/or quality control are required. A master's degree in a related field and authorization listed on the Radioactive Materials License are preferred.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.
Five years of experience in manufacturing and/or quality control of PET radiopharmaceuticals.
Ability to work safely with cyclotron and radiochemistry equipment in regulated environments, including areas involving high voltage and radiation exposure risks.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related field.
Authorized user listed in the Radioactive Materials (RAM) License as per the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

Responsibilities

Apply theoretical and practical knowledge of cyclotron operation and radioisotope production using a particle accelerator.
Support safe and efficient cyclotron and radiochemistry operations in compliance with the facility radioactive materials license.
Assist the Cyclotron Engineering Specialist and radiochemist with facility design, construction, and improvement projects.
Coordinate operational schedules with facility personnel to minimize costs and maximize effectiveness.
Monitor cyclotron system performance and implement improvements to maximize equipment uptime.
Troubleshoot semi-complex technical problems involving cyclotron and radiochemistry equipment and systems.
Identify, analyze, and resolve equipment defects, maintenance issues, and operational concerns.
Use electronic test and measurement instruments, mechanical tools, and testing equipment to perform maintenance and repairs.
Safely operate gas leak detection equipment to identify and address system issues.
Apply safety principles when operating cyclotron and radiochemistry equipment in regulated environments, including areas with high voltage and radiation exposure risks.
Follow established policies, procedures, operational standards, and quality management system requirements.
Liaise with technical and professional staff regarding equipment modifications, maintenance requirements, and operational improvements.
Provide technical knowledge and operational expertise to support problem resolution and process enhancements.
Communicate equipment-related concerns and recommendations to appropriate stakeholders.
Interface with customers to promote satisfaction and service excellence.
Monitor equipment reliability and performance metrics and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to address technical challenges and improve facility performance.