Associate Research Scientist

Description

The Department of Radiology at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University Medical Center invites applications for an Associate Research Scientist.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research environment integrating radiochemistry, molecular imaging, and translational biomedical research. We seek candidates with strong technical expertise in preclinical molecular imaging and demonstrated potential to develop an independent, extramurally funded research program. Our team is highly collaborative and provides research mentoring as well as the opportunity to participate in a wide spectrum of highly relevant and innovative projects.

Specific duties include:

1. Design and conduct in vitro studies to characterize radiopharmaceutical binding, specificity, internalization, stability, metabolism, and radiochemical performance using relevant cell-based and biochemical assays, including molecular biology and genetic modification.
2. Translate in vitro findings to in vivo validation studies in small animal models, evaluating tracer biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic response.
3. Perform radioisotope-labeled tracer administration in small animals (e.g., intravenous, intraperitoneal), with subsequent dissection, tissue analysis including microscopy and cell preparation for secondary culture or fluoroscopy analysis.
4. Integrate PET and PET/CT, SPECT and optical imaging data with biological, molecular, and histopathologic endpoints to support translational research objectives.
5. Perform independent analysis of research data with preparation for presentation, publication and submission of applications for independent funding; keep the appropriate research documentation.
6. Collaborate with basic scientists, imaging physicists, clinicians, and core facilities to advance multi-investigator research projects.
7. Perform all work in accordance with institutional radiation, biological, recombinant nucleic acid and chemical safety requirements and IACUC-approved protocols.
8. Participate in laboratory safety, animal research oversight, and imaging core governance as appropriate.
9. Uphold institutional standards for research compliance, professionalism, and collaboration.

Qualifications

Preferred Experience

1. Successful application for competitive extramural grant applications (e.g., NIH K- and R-series, foundation funding) to support research independence.
2. Participate in the development of shared imaging datasets and institutional research resources.
3. Contribute to formal and informal educational activities within the department, graduate programs, or training grants.

Required Qualifications

1. Doctoral degree (PhD, MD, DVM, or equivalent) in molecular imaging, nuclear medicine, radiology, biomedical sciences, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
2. Postdoctoral or equivalent research training with demonstrated expertise in preclinical small animal studies and in vitro experiments.
3. Hands-on experience with small animal PET or PET/CT, SPECT and optical imaging.
4. Experience administering radioisotope-labeled compounds in mice.
5. Strong background in quantitative imaging analysis and interpretation.
6. Demonstrated ability to publish scientific research.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience in radiopharmaceutical development or tracer evaluation.
2. Familiarity with dynamic PET/SPECT/optical imaging and kinetic modeling.
3. Evidence of prior or pending extramural funding (e.g., fellowship, career development award).
4. Experience mentoring students or trainees.