Direct Alpha Spectrocopy on Biological Samples Student Research Assistant (On-site)

TRIUMF Innovations Inc.; Vancouver; On-site; CAD 31,000 - 47,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel cost assistance

Job summary

TRIUMF Innovations Inc. in Vancouver, BC, seeks a motivated Chemistry or Physics student to assist in developing sample preparation procedures for direct alpha spectroscopy on cancer cells and to help with detector systems and analytical methods.

You will gain hands-on experience with radiometric methods, radiation safety, and a collaborative research environment at Canada’s national laboratory context, contributing to a funded project with a potential extension.

Qualifications

• Chemistry, Computational Data Analysis and Radiometric detectors experience preferred.
• Nuclear science, radiochemistry, preparative chemistry or analytical chemistry background is welcome.

Responsibilities

• Assist with development of sample preparation procedures for direct alpha spectroscopy on cancer cells.
• Help develop detector systems and apply analytical procedures to test samples.
• Assist with development of reference models for direct alpha spectroscopy on cancer cells.

Skills

Chemistry

Computational Data Analysis

Computer Software Programming

Data Acquisition Systems

Electronic Assemblies

Nuclear Physics

Physics

Radiochemistry

Education

Chemistry or Physics student

Job description

## **Overview****Motivation:**Targeted alpha-particle therapy (TAT) works with radionuclides conjugated to tumour-targeting molecules to deliver localized alpha radiation to cancer cells. To investigate uptake and retention efficiencies on living cell cultures, we developed a method to detect alpha emissions directly from cells incubated with TAT vectors. After first proof-of-principle experiments, the goal is now to develop quantitative and reproducible procedures and a cell reference model to address the following issues:* Inconsistent growth and death rates* Clustering* Sensitivity to environmental factors (temperature, medium, atmospheric conditions)* Unknown metabolic processes* Ageing and mutation of cultures**Scope of work:** The task of the student will be • to assist with the development of sample preparation procedures for direct alpha spectroscopy on cancer cells • to help with the development of detector systems • to apply suitable analytical procedures to test samples • to assist with the development of reference models for direct alpha spectroscopy on cancer cells**Learning outcomes:** The student will • learn about radiometric analytical methods, in particular alpha spectroscopy. • learn to work with radioactive materials and radiation sources in the context of optimizing sample preparation procedures. • acquire knowledge on radiation safety and the operation of a custom research apparatus. • gain experience in teamwork, working in a research lab, management of small to medium-sized projects, interdisciplinary, international research environment, publishing and presenting research results**Qualifications:**We are looking for a motivated Chemistry or Physics student with an interest in interdisciplinary analytical methods and radiometric detectors. Experience in some of the following fields would be welcome:* nuclear science, radiochemistry, preparative chemistry* analytical chemistry**NUCLEAR ENERGY WORKER:** The incumbent will be required to successfully complete the TRIUMF in-house radiation safety training course and be designated as a TRIUMF Nuclear Energy Worker.**Skills required:**Chemistry, Computational Data Analysis, Computer Software Programming, Data Acquisition Systems, Electronic Assemblies, Nuclear Physics, Physics, RadiochemistryTRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics, is situated on the vibrant south campus of the University of British Columbia, nestled within the beautiful Pacific Spirit Park in Vancouver, BC.At TRIUMF, we value our employees and are committed to providing a competitive total rewards package. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer comprehensive benefits that promote the well-being and security of our staff. Our organization provides an excellent opportunity to grow your career in a high-profile national research facility, where you can make a difference.If you are passionate about science, engineering and technology, driven to excel, and eager to be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking organization, we encourage you to apply. Take the next step in your career journey with TRIUMF.TRIUMF offers help with travel costs for students outside the Vancouver and surrounding area.**Applications must have the following documents uploaded:*** A **resume/CV*** A covering letter that includes your interest in and your qualifications for the specific position* A copy of academic transcript (unofficial copies are accepted)**Incomplete applications may not be considered.****Applications closing date:**September 21, 2026**Period of Work (possible 4 month extension):**January 01, 2027-April 30, 2027Salary is commensurate with academic progress and previous relevant work experience, and ranges from $ 2815 to $ 4238 per month including 4% vacation pay. TRIUMF is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified undergraduate students as defined below (unless stated otherwise above):* Canadian undergraduate students or Canadian Permanent Resident undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution in Canada (or outside Canada) who are studying in a vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.* Foreign full-time undergraduate students currently enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level, and who are studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration, and who have a valid Canadian study permit which allows for employment off-campus, and who have applied for a Social Insurance Number* Foreign undergraduate students enrolled in a recognized undergraduate program of study abroad who have accepted, or are in the process of accepting, an \"Invitation to Apply\" for a work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program http://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/iec/apply-work-permit.html.At TRIUMF, we’re passionate about accelerating discovery and innovation to improve lives and build a better world. Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to excellence and enhance our ability to create knowledge and opportunity for all. Together, we are committed to building an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the voices of our employees, students, partners, and the people and communities we serve.**Contact information:** **Email:** [e-mail] **Phone:** 604.222.1047 **Fax:** 604.222.3791 4004 Wesbrook Mall Vancouver, BC V6T 2A3