Cyclotron Radiochemist

African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) Abuja - Cyclotron Radiochemist

Location: Abuja

Employment Type: Full-time

Job Purpose

• The Cyclotron Radiochemist will be responsible for the development, synthesis, and quality control of radiopharmaceuticals at the AMCE cyclotron facility.
• This role is critical for supporting Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging and advancing nuclear medicine by ensuring the reliable production of high-purity, clinically effective radiotracers.
• The role holder will lead radiochemistry operations, maintain strict compliance with regulatory standards, and contribute to research and development of novel compounds. He/ She will demonstrate expert technical knowledge, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong commitment to patient safety.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Radiopharmaceutical Production & Development:

• Perform routine synthesis, purification, and quality control of a range of PET radiotracers using automated synthesis modules.
• Develop and optimize new radiochemistry methods and procedures for novel radiotracers to support clinical and research needs.
• Manage the production schedule to efficiently meet clinical demand, coordinating closely with the cyclotron and nuclear medicine teams.

Quality Control & Assurance:

• Conduct comprehensive QC testing of all produced radiopharmaceuticals, including analyses for radiochemical purity, chemical purity, pH, radionuclidic identity, and sterility.
• Maintain meticulous documentation for all production and QC batches in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles.
• Manage the QC laboratory, including equipment calibration and maintenance.

Radiation Safety & Compliance:

• Adhere to and promote strict radiation safety protocols for the handling and disposal of radioactive materials.
• Ensure full compliance with all regulations by relevant bodies for radiopharmaceutical production and laboratory safety.
• Participate in radiation safety audits and inspections.

Research & Innovation:

• Actively participate in research and development projects aimed at innovating new radiotracers and improving existing synthesis protocols.
• Contribute to clinical trials by providing investigational radiopharmaceuticals and technical expertise.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.

Training & Collaboration:

• Train and mentor junior radiochemists and technologists on synthesis procedures, QC methods, and safety practices.
• Collaborate effectively with cyclotron physicists, nuclear medicine physicians, and radiologists to ensure seamless workflow and high-quality patient care.
• Provide technical expertise to multidisciplinary teams on the selection and use of appropriate radiopharmaceuticals.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemistry, Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Certification or formal training in GMP and radiopharmacy is highly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of organic chemistry, radiochemistry principles, and analytical techniques (HPLC, GC, TLC).
• Proven experience with automated radiochemistry synthesis modules and working in a regulated laboratory environment.
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• 3-5 years of hands-on experience in a radiopharmaceutical production environment, preferably with PET radiotracers.
• Demonstrated expertise in GMP-compliant production and quality control of radiopharmaceuticals.
• Proven track record in method development and optimization of radiochemistry processes.
• Experience in training or mentoring staff in laboratory techniques and safety procedures is desirable.

Application Closing Date

Not Specified.