Radiochemist at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The 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 & Experience

• 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.
• Minimum of 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.