Postdoctoral Research Associate – Radiochemistry (Isotope Production)

Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC; Upton (NY); On-site; USD 71,900 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate for a 2-year term to engage in multidisciplinary research on medical and research radioisotopes. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a relevant field conferred within the last five years, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential.

The role involves planning experiments, documenting findings, and collaborating with other researchers. The salary range for this position is $71,900–$85,000 per year based on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. conferred within the past five years required.
• Experience with radioactive materials and radiochemical techniques.
• Ability to provide a list of publication as first or co-first author.

Responsibilities

• Plan experiments that satisfy safety requirements.
• Document results and prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.
• Develop methods for separation and purification of radionuclides.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Radiochemistry or related field

Tools

Ion chromatography

Gamma spectroscopy

Job description

Position Overview

The Brookhaven National Laboratory Isotope Research and Production Department (IP) has an opening for a 2‑year term Postdoctoral Research Associate to participate in multidisciplinary research projects with a focus on the production, processing, and purification of medical and research radioisotopes.

Responsibilities

• Plan experiments that satisfy safety requirements and operational constraints.
• Develop and test methods for the separation and purification of radionuclides of interest.
• Document experimental results and prepare manuscripts for peer‑reviewed journals.
• Prepare presentations to summarize research findings for internal and external audiences.
• Follow conduct of operations.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, or a closely related field conferred within the past five (5) years.
• Experience with radioactive materials and radiochemical techniques or a record of academic training in the field.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work with scientific literature to summarize project‑relevant information.
• Ability to work independently and follow written procedures and manuals.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully collaborate with other researchers.
• Effective communication, including writing, speaking, and interpersonal communication.
• Ability to work after hours on planned occasions.
• Exclusive ability to provide a list of publications where the applicant is first or co‑first author (applications without such a list may be considered incomplete).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with separation techniques such as ion chromatography, precipitation, solvent extraction, etc.
• Experience with radioisotope production and purification.
• Experience with radiolabeling complexes.
• Familiarity with hot‑cell or glovebox operations.
• Experience in AI/ML and automation in chemical processes.
• Experience in gamma spectroscopy and inorganic analytical chemistry techniques.
• Experience training students or junior personnel.

Additional Information

• This is a 2‑year term assignment.
• BNL policy requires that Postdoctoral Research Associate appointments be made to individuals who have received their doctorate within the past five (5) years.
• Eligible candidates may not exceed a combined total of five years of relevant post‑Ph.D. experience excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness, or other life‑changing events.
• Brookhaven National Laboratory is committed to providing fair, equitable, and competitive compensation. The full salary range for this position is $71,900–$85,000 per year. Salary offers will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualifications, education, and experience and placed in the appropriate internal peer group.

EEO Statement

Brookhaven National Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or disability. The Laboratory is committed to fostering a respectful and collaborative environment that fuels scientific discovery.