POST DOCTORAL FELLOW - NUCLEAR OPERATION AND FACIL

Job Title: Post Doctorate Fellow
Reports to: Dr. Karin Stephenson
Bargaining Unit: CUPE, Local 3906, Unit 3

Job description
Applications are invited from talented and self-motivated scientist to work in radioisotope production research within the multidisciplinary team of radiochemists, nuclear physicists and engineers at Nuclear Operation and Facilities (NOF) and Physics and Astronomy.

McMaster NOF uniquely houses both a 5 MW Nuclear Research Reactor and a 16 MeV PETtrace cyclotron, which are complementary in the production of medical isotopes for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, supporting preclinical and clinical research locally, nationally and globally.   

The post holder will join the NOF radioisotope research program lead by Dr Karin Nielsen (Manager, Radioisotope R&D) to develop and optimise production routes for novel and established radioisotopes, including 166Ho, 44Sc, 94mTc, and collaboratively working with Faculty and external collaborators to expand the breadth of the research program.

The successful candidate will be expected not only to perform projects within their specified remit but also to provide training, assistance and advice to students, coworkers and research collaborators. The role will be a basis for authoring publications on the development of innovative methodologies in this field.

Qualifications
PhD awarded in Radiochemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Nuclear Physics, Cyclotron Engineering or related chemistry, physics or engineering field.
Assets
The following experience will be an asset for the candidates:
Comprehensive knowledge of radioisotope production and purification methods, including cyclotron and/or reactor production routes, targetry design and chemical separation methods

• Advanced knowledge of the safe handling of radioactive materials, including gamma, beta and alpha emitters
• Advanced skills in study/experimental design and analysis of complex research data
• Practical experience with chemical separation techniques, such as solid phase extraction, liquid-liquid extraction, dry distillation
• Practical experience working with radioisotopes
• Experience in use of radiochemical analytical methods, such as HPGe detector and ICP equipment, to assess radionuclide quality

Duration and Salary
The position start date is 13th of January 2025 on a 1-year term contract with the possibility of an extension. Salary is $65,000 CAD/year with benefits.

Inquiries
Dr. Karin Nielsen
nielsk6@mcmaster.ca