Distinguished Staff Scientist (Cancer Biology and Radiopharmaceutical Therapy Development and Advanc

About the role

Join Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), in collaboration with the University of Tennessee (UT) Oak Ridge Innovation Institute (ORII) Convergent Research Initiative, as we advance radiopharmaceutical therapies. The position will be with the Isotope Applications Research Group (IARG) within the Radioisotope Science and Technology Division. We seek a Distinguished Staff Scientist with expertise in cancer cell biology and radiobiology to strengthen preclinical therapeutic evaluation, connect tumor biology with radiopharmaceutical development, and support translation of promising approaches toward clinical application.

Research Focus

The research will focus on advancing radiopharmaceutical therapy, with emphasis on tumor biology and preclinical radiobiology. Areas of interest include:

• Mechanistic studies of tumor response to radiation and targeted therapeutics, including DNA damage response, cell-cycle regulation, signaling, resistance, and radiosensitization.
• Development and use of mammalian cancer model systems, including 2D and advanced in vitro approaches, to evaluate therapeutic response in relevant tumor contexts.
• Evaluation of radiopharmaceutical constructs and targeted delivery platforms that support improved tumor targeting, therapeutic efficacy, and safety.
• Quantitative cellular and molecular assays to assess uptake, viability, cytotoxicity, DNA damage, proliferation, biomarker expression, and off-target effects.
• Integration of cancer biology with radiochemistry, isotope science, dosimetry, imaging, data analysis, and clinical collaborations to support translation.

IARG is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing the production, exploration of fundamental properties, and practical applications of radioisotopes produced at ORNL. Comprised of experts ranging from nuclear engineers and radiochemists to organic chemists and cell biologists, IARG pushes the boundaries of technology in the production, isolation, and characterization of radionuclides.

Responsibilities

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with researchers across ORNL, UT, and external partners in cancer biology, radiochemistry, nuclear medicine, radiobiology, medical physics, and clinical oncology.
• Innovative Research: Conduct research in tumor biology, radiobiology, and therapeutic evaluation to improve targeting, efficacy, and understanding of therapeutic response.
• Translation and Clinical Integration: Work with university and clinical partners to help move promising radiopharmaceutical and combination therapy concepts from preclinical studies toward clinical applications.
• Grant Writing and Fundraising: Seek external funding opportunities and assist in securing research grants, contracts, and philanthropic support to sustain and expand research activities.
• Publication and Dissemination: Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, present at scientific conferences, and engage in outreach activities that enhance the visibility of ORNL, UT, and ORII.
• Mentorship and Training: Assist in mentoring graduate students and interns, offering guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to cultivate a skilled research team.

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent degree in cancer biology, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, biomedical engineering, radiobiology, radiation oncology, or a related field, with 10+ years of relevant experience within the field.
• Expertise in cancer biology and one or more related areas such as radiobiology, molecular oncology, therapeutic response assays, molecular imaging, targeted delivery, or radiopharmaceutical therapy.
• Strong record of research accomplishments evidenced by publications, presentations, technical contributions, or other impactful work in a relevant field.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with advanced cancer model systems and quantitative cellular or molecular assays used to evaluate therapeutic response, mechanism of action, or radiosensitization.
• Familiarity with radionuclide or radiopharmaceutical therapy research, targeted delivery or nanomedicine approaches, dosimetry-informed studies, combination therapy strategies, or interdisciplinary translational oncology teams.

Security and Eligibility

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge. A Real ID-compliant form of identification will be required. All employees must be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card, which includes a favorable post-employment background investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year (marijuana and cannabis derivatives are included, regardless of state laws). This position also requires access to technology subject to export control requirements; successful candidates must qualify for such access without an export control license. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Benefits

• Prescription Drug Plan
• Dental Plan
• Vision Plan
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Contributory Pension Plan
• Life Insurance
• Disability Benefits
• Generous Vacation and Holidays
• Parental Leave
• Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection
• Employee Assistance Plan
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health Savings Accounts
• Wellness Programs
• Educational Assistance
• Relocation Assistance
• Employee Discounts
• On-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities
• Flexible work hours