Research Associate

Berkeley Lab’s (LBNL) Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division (MBIB) has an opening for a Research Associate to perform research assignments such as producing and providing quality assurance for the Positron Emission Tomography (PET) radiopharmaceuticals.

In this exciting role, you will maintain and operate Biomedical Isotope Facility (BIF) instruments and equipment, perform record keeping for radiopharmaceutical productions, and conduct general lab duties such as inventory, ordering, and stocking supplies.

This position has an anticipated start date of May 1, 2025.

What You Will Do:

• Perform routine production of PET radiopharmaceuticals for research studies. 
• Operate automated radiochemistry equipment and Quality Control (QC) equipment.
• Ensure all necessary reagents are prepared and available for the synthesis, and that QC reagents are prepared to perform QC on all radiopharmaceuticals used for research studies.  
• Complete and file batch records for each radiopharmaceutical production.  
• Maintain an inventory of precursors, reagents and supplies for radiochemical production.  
• Perform radiation surveys of the radiochemistry laboratory and cyclotron vault. 
• Perform periodic laboratory housekeeping duties in compliance with guidelines for radiation and chemical safety, and maintain a clean, orderly, and safe radiochemistry laboratory.  
• Properly label, separate, and dispose of biohazardous, radioactive, and chemical hazardous waste. 
• Maintain laboratory instrumentation and automation equipment.
• Participate in developing new radiopharmaceutical agents for routine use.

In addition to the above, the level 2 will also:

• Perform production of PET radiopharmaceuticals for research studies. 
• Provide preliminary analysis of data, troubleshoot malfunctions, and make the necessary repairs or adjustments to achieve the desired results.
• Provide guidance in data collection, preliminary analysis, and trending to improve radiochemical yields and reliability.
• Keep track and maintain the BIF scheduling of isotope and radiopharmaceutical productions.
• Diagnose, repair, redesign, and maintain the cyclotron’s electrical, mechanical, vacuum systems.

What is Required:

• A minimum of 1 year of experience using analytical instrumentation including High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and/or Gas Chromatography (GC).
• Knowledge of radioactivity and use of radiation in experimentation.
• Proficiency in the use of computer and related software programs including MS Office Suite, Google Applications, Adobe Acrobat, and Zoom video conferencing.
• Strong oral and written communication skills including the ability to accurately organize, document, and maintain laboratory research data, results, and records. 
• Effective interpersonal skills including the ability to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team environment. 

Additional Qualifications for the level 2:

• A minimum of 2 years of demonstrated experience using analytical instrumentation including High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and/or Gas Chromatography (GC).
• An understanding of radioactivity and use of radiation in experimentation.

Desired Qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Sciences or related field.
• Experience in Organic or Medicinal Chemical Synthesis. 
• Experience in handling, storage, and disposal of radioactive materials.
• Experience in radioisotope production.

Notes:

• Application Deadline: For full consideration, please apply with a curriculum vitae (CV) or resume and a cover letter describing your interest by March 25, 2025.
• Appointment Type: This is a full-time career appointment
• Salary Information: This position can be hired at the Level 1 or Level 2 and is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary for this position will be commensurate with the final candidate’s qualification and experience, including skills, knowledge, relevant education, certifications, and aligned with the internal peer group.
• Level 1: This position is expected to pay $25.14 - $35.49, non-exempt (hourly paid) from overtime, for job code 381.1. 
• Level 2: This position is expected to pay $5,487 - $7,742, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime, for job code 381.2.
• As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
• Background Check: This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work Modality: This position will be performed onsite Lawrence Berkeley National Lab located at 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA 94720.
• Relocation Assistance: This position is not eligible for relocation assistance.
• Eligibility: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship now or in the future (e.g., H-1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. In support of our rich community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.