Postdoc in Radiopharmaceutical Development for Cancer Treatment

Are you passionate about advancing cancer treatment through cutting-edge radiopharmaceutical development? Do you have hands-on experience in radiochemistry? Join our innovative team at the Research Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research (KI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark (SDU).
Are you passionate about advancing cancer treatment through cutting-edge radiopharmaceutical development? Do you have hands-on experience in radiochemistry? Join our innovative team at the Research Unit of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research (KI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark (SDU).

About Us
Our Preclinical Research Group is a vibrant, multidisciplinary team of experts in radiochemistry, nuclear physics, biomedicine, and molecular biology. We are dedicated to pioneering new radiopharmaceuticals for PET imaging and receptor-targeted precision radiotherapies, utilizing unconventional radionuclides.

Our Mission
We aim to revolutionize the treatment of aggressive cancers, including brain and breast cancer, through theranostic technologies and novel drug delivery methods. Our research focuses on targeted radioactive molecules that deliver precise radiation doses to eradicate cancer cells at the single-cell level.

The Position
We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in our Synergy project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, “Image and Destroy: New Radionuclides for Cancer Theranostics.” This collaborative project involves the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Pharmacy at the University of Southern Denmark (Prof. Christine McKenzie) and the School of Chemical Sciences at Dublin City University, Ireland (Prof. Andrew Kellett). The postdoc position is available for 2 years.

Research Focus
- Development of cancer-targeting peptides with chelators for binding radioactive theranostic isotope pairs (117/119Sb, 55/58mCo, 64/67Cu).

- Application of these peptides in diagnostics and cancer therapy.

Key Responsibilities
- Production of novel radiometals using solid target-based methods.

- Radiochemical development of new radiopharmaceuticals for targeted radionuclide therapy, particularly for brain cancer.

Qualifications
- A PhD in chemistry, pharmacy, or a related field.

- Strong experience in chemical synthesis.

- Preferably, a background in radiochemistry.

- Experience in radionuclide production and purification is advantageous.

- Excellent communication and collaborative skills.

- Proficiency in spoken and written English.

Research Environment
Our research unit, housed within the Department of Nuclear Medicine at Odense University Hospital (OUH), is at the forefront of radiopharmaceutical development for cancer treatment. We conduct cutting-edge research in collaboration with departments at OUH, the University of Southern Denmark, and esteemed national and international partners.

State-of-the-Art Facilities
We boast advanced facilities for radiochemistry and radioisotope production, including:

- Radiopharmaceutical and radiochemical laboratories

- Two cyclotrons for the production of a variety of radioisotopes including radiometals

- Five PET/CT scanners and one PET/MR scanner for advanced molecular imaging

- Four SPECT/CT scanners and three gamma cameras for comprehensive diagnostic capabilities

- A dedicated cell laboratory for studying the uptake and response of diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals

In partnership with the Biomedical Laboratory at SDU, we conduct preclinical imaging on animal models using a specialized PET/CT/SPECT scanner, and soon, a PET/MR scanner, as part of the Danish Molecular Bioimaging Center (DaMBIC).

Collaborative Environment
We offer a stimulating and collaborative research environment, working closely with interdisciplinary teams at SDU and OUH. Our unit provides exceptional opportunities for professional growth and development in radiopharmaceutical research, with extensive support and expertise in radiochemistry, coordination chemistry, and the production of new radiopharmaceutical compounds.

Why Join Us?
- Work in a dynamic and supportive research environment.

- Collaborate with leading scientists in the field.

- Contribute to groundbreaking research with significant impact on cancer treatment.

The two-year position is available immediately. If you are highly motivated, dedicated, and ambitious, we encourage you to apply.

To apply, submit your application – including the required attachments – electronically via the below-mentioned link “Apply online" (see details below).

Application Deadline: July 28, 2024 at 23.59 hrs. CEST

Contact Information
For inquiries, please contact Associate Professor, Head of Preclinical Research, Helge Thisgaard ([email protected] ) at the University of Southern Denmark.

Join us in our mission to develop innovative treatments that can save lives!
Conditions of employment

The employment takes place in accordance with the agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Central Organization of the Academics.

Application

Applications must be submitted electronically using the link “Apply now” - see below.

We strongly recommend that you read How to apply for a position at SDU before you apply.

Only applications written in English will be accepted for evaluation.

The application must include (as PDF files) (please note that the application (the motivation letter) and CV must not exceed 10 MB in total):

• A cover letter stating your specific interest, motivation, and qualifications for the project in question (max. two pages).
• A CV
• Copies of certificates/diplomas including evidence of acquisition of a PhD degree or equivalent
• A complete and numbered list of publications
• The up to 3 scientific, peer-reviewed publications that the applicant wishes to be included in the assessment of his or her scientific qualifications. (Please note that one PDF file must be attached for each publication).

Incomplete applications will not be assessed.

Applications may be shortlisted.

Assessment of (shortlisted) applicants will be done in accordance with the current/applicable university recruitment order. Applicants will be assessed by an expert committee, and applicant will be informed of their assessment by the university.

If you experience technical problems, you must contact [email protected]

Living and working in Denmark

Foreign applicants will be offered Danish language training as part of the employment. The International Staff Office (ISO) at SDU provides a variety of services for new employees, guests and people who consider applying for a job at the University of Southern Denmark.

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.

Placering: Odense, Denmark