Research Specialist II

The University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) is seeking a Research Specialist II to help support Dr. Heather Hennkens’s radiopharmaceutical chemistry research program. This program seeks to advance research within the field of nuclear medicine by generating new knowledge and innovations in the areas of radiochemistry, radioisotope production, and radiopharmaceutical sciences. This pivotal role (and the successful candidate) will be responsible for performing research in the development and evaluation of methods for the production and separation of radioisotopes as well as for the radiochemical incorporation of these (or other) radioisotopes into various vectors for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

Key Duties Performed by This Position Will Include

·         Conduct material irradiation experiments using thermal neutrons at the MU Research Reactor

·         Perform radioisotope separation experiments utilizing radiochemical separation techniques such as chromatography and extraction methods

·         Operate HPLC, radioTLC, and other instrumentation to evaluate radiocomplexes

·         Obtain and analyze data from the above and other techniques such as gamma spectroscopy

·         Write procedures and policies for handling radioactive samples

·         Train and assist student researchers to work in a radiation laboratory

·         Work with health physics, production, shipping, and development groups to plan and execute experiments

The successful candidate will be a persuasive communicator with exceptional organizational and time management skills. They must demonstrate the following durable skills: character, collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking, metacognition, mindfulness, growth mindset, and fortitude. Additionally, they must demonstrate customer service, confidentiality, integrity, and a commitment to university values in their activities.

Must be available for regular and consistent on-site work.