Working/Functional Title
Research Analytical Chemist II
Position Summary
Michigan State University (MSU) operates the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) as a user facility for the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science (DOE-SC), supporting the mission of the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics. FRIB provides researchers with one of the most advanced tools of modern science to study rare isotopes, or short-lived nuclei not normally found on Earth. Hosting what is designed to be the most powerful heavy-ion accelerator, FRIB enables scientists to make discoveries about the properties of rare isotopes, nuclear astrophysics, fundamental interactions, and applications for society, including in medicine, homeland security, and industry. User facility operation is supported by the DOE-SC Office of Nuclear Physics as one of 28 DOE-SC user facilities. MSU’s nuclear physics graduate program is a top-ranked program nationally, according to U.S. News & World Report.
This position affords an exciting opportunity to become part of the world-class FRIB Laboratory that enables unique discovery opportunities in nuclear science.
Purpose
The Research Analytical Chemist II will supports the Isotope Harvesting Program (IHP) at the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) by advancing isotope harvesting, QA/QC, and radiochemical separation processes. This role ensures the reliable production of high-purity radionuclides through operation and maintenance of analytical instrumentation, implementation of SOPs, and support for method development and process improvement within a multidisciplinary team.
Major Duties / Responsibilities
- Operate, calibrate, and maintain analytical instruments in the QA/QC laboratory, including radio-TLC, ICP-MS/OES, alpha/gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry equipment. In addition, provide training to graduate students and staff, and perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of these instruments to ensure their optimal performance and the accuracy of analytical results.
- Operate hot cells, fluidic systems, and purification systems within the quality and safety framework.
- Write, review, update, and implement QA/QC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) under the guidance of the operations lead. Execute QA SOPs for routine radionuclide production to ensure product quality and regulatory compliance.
- Prepare samples for analysis with proper labeling, documentation, and adherence to safety protocols. Maintain accurate records of experiments, procedures, and results in accordance with following regulatory requirements and good laboratory practices.
- Perform a wide range of QA/QC tests, interpret test results, identify trends, and provide summaries or reports to the Operations Manager and R&D team focusing on accuracy and precision. Additionally, make recommendations to improve and update production protocols with guidance from the R&D team Operations Manager, and collaborate with scientists and researchers to develop and validate analytical methods and procedures.
- Ensure product shipping complies with regulatory requirements and good laboratory practices.
- Compiles and summarizes results and participates in preparing reports, manuscripts, and articles for publication.
- Oversees QA/QC needs and orders required materials, supplies, and equipment.
- Research literature to maintain a current knowledge of laboratory research methods and terminology.
- Perform duties normally associated with a Research Assistant I to complete research projects.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Thorough understanding of and ability to interpret and operate within the radiation, chemical, and general safety framework.
- Thorough understanding of and ability to interpret and operate within the QA/QC framework relevant for radionuclide production.
- Possess thorough expertise in operating, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instruments, including radio-TLC, ICP-MS/OES, alpha/gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry laboratory equipment, as well as analyzing, interpreting, and preparing reports based on the results obtained from these instruments.
- Ability to exert judgment using an understanding of the purpose, objectives, practices, and procedures of the department.
- Ability to perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on IHP systems and equipment to ensure optimal performance and result accuracy.
- Strong willingness to learn and apply skills learned on the job in utilizing telemanipulators, specialized hot cell functioning, and essential QA/QC procedures related to radionuclide production.
- Ability to work independently and demonstrate wise judgment based on facts.
- Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively and credibly, both verbally and in writing with all audiences.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suites.
- Strong knowledge of analytical and radioanalytical chemistry principles, laboratory techniques, and safety protocols.
- Hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting analytical instruments, radio-TLC, ICP-MS/ OES, alpha/ gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry lab equipment.
- Demonstrated knowledge of method development, validation, and quality control procedures in analytical chemistry.
- Sophisticated in data analysis using software or tools such as Excel, statistical software, or chromatography data systems.
- Excellent attention to detail skills, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Ability to effectively collaborate with team members.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to adapt to changing priorities and project requirements.
- Thorough knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, hazardous waste management, and regulatory compliance.
- Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with the latest advancements in analytical chemistry techniques and technologies.
Minimum Requirements
Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Analytical or Radiochemistry; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Three years of experience operating, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting analytical instruments, including radio-TLC, ICP-MS/OES, alpha/gamma spectrometers, liquid scintillation counters, acid purification systems, and general chemistry laboratory equipment, as well as analyzing, interpreting, and preparing reports based on the results obtained from these instruments.
- Three years of experience in radioactive material handling.
- Radiochemical separations (ion exchange, extraction chromatography, electrochemical, solvent extraction).
- Three years of experience working in a radiochemistry laboratory.
- Ability to work with export-controlled technologies.
Desired Qualifications
- Advanced Degree in Analytical or Radiochemistry
- Experience in radionuclide production, or medical isotope applications.
- Certification or formal training in Quality Assurance / Quality Control.
- Experience writing and implementing SOPs and regulatory documentation.
- Hands-on expertise with hot cell operations, remote handling, and use of telemanipulators.
- Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standar
