Research Fellow/Associate (Senior Research Radiochemist)

Company description:

The National University of Singapore is the national research university of Singapore. Founded in 1905 as the Straits Settlements and the Federated Malay States Government Medical School, NUS is the oldest higher education institution in Singapore.

Job Description

The National University of Singapore invites applications for a Senior Research Radiochemist in the Department of Clinical Imaging Research Centre (CIRC) Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. CIRC is a dedicated molecular imaging research centre. It is equipped with on-site capability for the preparation of PET radiopharmaceuticals in a state-of-the-art GMP-certified facility. CIRC is positioned to support both academic and commercially led clinical research programs, with dedicated clinical imaging facilities area advanced modalities of PET-CT and PET-MRI.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Research Radiochemist to lead and manage cutting-edge research in the development of radiopharmaceuticals. In this pivotal role, you will guide a team of radiochemists and researchers, manage complex radiochemistry projects, and contribute to the advancement of innovative treatments for medical imaging and cancer therapy. You will oversee the development, optimization, and validation of radiochemical processes, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and fostering a culture of scientific excellence within the laboratory.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

The Senior Radiochemist will be able to:

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of radiochemists and research scientists, manage complex radiochemistry projects, and contribute to the advancement of innovative treatments for medical imaging and cancer therapy. Able to provide technical expertise, career development, and performance management. Promote a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Research & Development: Drive the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel radiopharmaceuticals, focusing on innovative strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. Oversee the development and optimization of radiochemical methodologies and perform routine production of radiopharmaceuticals using automated radiochemistry synthesis modules to carry out radioisotope incorporation (e.g., F-18, C-11) and radiotracer formulation. Assisting in the development of new radiochemical synthesis methods and new molecular imaging probes.
• Project Management: Manage and prioritize multiple research projects, ensuring timely completion within budget and in alignment with the company's strategic goals. Develop project plans, timelines, and resource allocation strategies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, including cGMP, FDA, EMA, and other relevant standards. Lead efforts for the preparation and submission of regulatory documentation for new radiopharmaceutical products and foster a culture of scientific excellence within the laboratory.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including clinical development, manufacturing, quality assurance, and external collaborators, to ensure successful translation of research findings to clinical applications.
• Innovation & Process Optimization: Identify and implement new technologies, techniques, and methodologies to improve the efficiency and quality of radiopharmaceutical production. Continuously seek opportunities for innovation in radiochemistry and radiopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Publications & Presentations: Author and present scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals and at industry conferences. Represent the company at scientific meetings, fostering relationships with key opinion leaders in the field.
• Laboratory Management: Assist in writing of SOPs, involved in routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment; and any adhoc duties as required for this role.
• Budget Management: Manage the research budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources. Oversee the procurement of necessary materials, equipment, and supplies.

Qualifications

• Education: PhD/MSc in Radiochemistry, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 5-10 years of hands-on experience in radiopharmaceutical research and development, with at least 3-5 years in a management or leadership role.
• Expertise: In-depth knowledge of radiochemical synthesis, purification techniques, and characterization methods for radiopharmaceuticals. Expertise in GMP practices and regulatory compliance is required.
• Leadership: Proven track record of managing and mentoring scientific teams. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and drive results.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in radiochemical instrumentation and analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, TLC, gamma spectroscopy). Familiarity with drug development and clinical trial processes is a plus.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex issues in radiochemical processes and product development.
• Innovation: A passion for scientific innovation and a drive to push the boundaries of radiopharmaceutical development.

Additional Qualifications

Personal Attributes:

• Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Detail-oriented, with a focus on quality and accuracy.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the commercialization of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Familiarity with the clinical application of radiopharmaceuticals in oncology or neurology.
• Industry experience in an FDA-regulated environment or similar.

Remuneration will be commensurate with the candidate's qualifications and experience.

Formal application: Please submit your application, indicating current/expected salary, supported by a detailed CV (including personal particulars, academic and employment history, complete list of publications/oral presentations and full contacts of two (2) referees to:

Director of CIRC, Professor Pek-Lan Khong: pek-lan.khong@nus.edu.sg

We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine

Department: Dean-Med-Clinical Imaging Research Centre

Employee Referral Eligible: No

Job requisition ID: 28589