Analytical Chemist

Purpose

The Research Analytical Chemist II will support 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 by operating and maintaining analytical instrumentation, implementing SOPs, and supporting method development and process improvement within a multidisciplinary team.

Scope

Supports the Isotope Harvesting Program in the FRIB Accelerator Systems Department.

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 on these instruments to ensure optimal performance and accurate 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.