Doctoral Researcher in Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry

About the role

The University of Helsinki invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher in Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry within the TRIM research group of the Department of Chemistry. The three‑and‑a‑half year PhD project, funded by the Research Council of Finland, aims to develop alpha‑emitting radioligands for the treatment of multi‑organ cancer metastases.

Key responsibilities

• Synthesize, purify and characterize organic precursors for radiolabeling.
• Develop and optimise radiolabeling procedures and assess the properties of radiolabeled compounds.
• Perform in‑vitro evaluation using cell‑based assays.
• Conduct in‑vivo studies in mouse tumour models, including PET and SPECT imaging and biodistribution analysis.
• Collaborate with partner laboratories in Sweden and Poland and travel as required.

Required profile

• MSc (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Pharmacy, Biochemistry or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated laboratory experience, especially in organic synthesis and compound characterization.
• Strong motivation for multidisciplinary research and ability to work independently.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Willingness to handle radioactive materials and work with research animals (experience advantageous).

Required skills

• Organic synthesis
• Compound purification
• Compound characterization
• Radiolabeling techniques
• PET imaging
• SPECT imaging
• Biodistribution studies
• In‑vitro cell culture
• In‑vivo mouse models

What we offer

• A fixed‑term PhD contract (approximately 3.5 years).
• Monthly salary between €2,600 and €2,800.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art radiochemistry facilities and imaging platforms.
• Opportunities for international collaboration and travel.