Assistant Project Scientist, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Theranostics Full-time

Assistant Project Scientist, Department of Nuclear Medicine and Theranostics

The Department of Nuclear Medicine and Theranostics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, invites applications for a Project Scientist position in translational radiopharmaceutical and nanomedicine research.

The successful candidate will hold a Ph.D. in Materials Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline and will possess advanced expertise in radiopharmaceutical development, nanocarrier engineering, molecular imaging, and translational oncology research. The candidate is expected to function as an independent scientific contributor, supporting and advancing ongoing clinical, preclinical and translational research within the Ahmanson Translational Theranostics Division of the Department of Nuclear Medicine and Theranostics.

The Project Scientist will lead the validation of peptide-based theranostic platforms for cancer imaging and therapy. Responsibilities include the radiolabeling of peptides, antibodies, and nanomaterials with clinically relevant radionuclides, optimization of pharmacokinetic and targeting properties, and evaluation of in vivo biodistribution, efficacy, and safety in preclinical models.

The successful candidate will work closely with radiochemists, and translational scientists to advance imaging and therapeutic agents toward clinical relevance. The position requires strong analytical expertise and familiarity with GMP-aligned quality control practices, radiochemical validation, and regulatory-aware laboratory documentation. Experience with PET/CT imaging, optical imaging (IVIS), radio-HPLC, and associated analytical techniques is essential.

In addition, the Project Scientist will contribute to the mentorship and supervision of trainees, including graduate students, medical students, and research staff, and will assist in the preparation of manuscripts, grant applications, and research reports. The candidate is also expected to participate in collaborative projects, present research findings at national and international scientific meetings, and support the laboratory's translational research mission.

Qualifications

Basic qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related field • Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals

Additional qualifications:

• Advanced expertise in radiopharmaceutical development and molecular imaging • Hands-on experience with radiometals including ⁶⁸Ga, ⁶⁴Cu, ⁸⁹Zr, ¹⁷⁷Lu, ²¹²Pb, and ²²⁵Ac • Strong background in nanomedicine, peptide engineering, and surface functionalization • Experience with PET/CT imaging, IVIS optical imaging, and radiochemical quality control • Familiarity with GMP-aligned laboratory practices, SOPs, and regulatory documentation • Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary research teams • Strong written and oral communication skills

Application Requirements

Document requirements:

• Curriculum Vitae – Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter (Optional)
• Statement of Research (Optional)
• Reference check authorization release form – Complete and upload the reference check authorization release form
• UCLA Mission Statement – As the nation's premier public research university, UC's mission is the creation, dissemination, preservation and application of knowledge for the betterment of our global society. We have a particular responsibility to the people of California which we express in the excellence of the education we provide, the impact of the research we do, the comprehensive, life-saving medical services we provide, and the public service mission we are devoted to. The University of California promotes the social mobility of its students, equips them with the tools and experience that furthers their ambitions, and regards their accomplishments across the life span as evidence of the profoundly positive impact of higher education.
• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements:

• 2-4 letters of reference required

References may be contacted to verify experience.