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Assistant Radiochemist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Radiochemist information

What is an assistant radiochemist?

Assistant Radiochemists are professionals who support the work of radiochemists in laboratories, typically within medical, research, or industrial settings. They assist in the preparation, handling, and analysis of radioactive materials, ensuring proper safety protocols are followed. Their tasks may include preparing radiopharmaceuticals, maintaining laboratory equipment, and recording experimental data. Assistant Radiochemists play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of radiochemistry labs, contributing to important advancements in medical imaging, cancer treatment, and scientific research.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant radiochemist?

To thrive as an Assistant Radiochemist, you need a solid background in chemistry or radiochemistry, typically supported by a relevant degree and laboratory experience. Familiarity with radioactive material handling protocols, analytical instrumentation (such as HPLC, gamma spectrometry), and safety certifications is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure accurate results, maintain safety standards, and support collaborative scientific research.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant radiochemist, and how can they be managed?

Assistant Radiochemists often encounter challenges related to strict safety protocols and accurate handling of radioactive materials. Adhering to regulatory compliance and maintaining detailed documentation is essential, which can be demanding for those new to the field. Teamwork and clear communication with senior radiochemists and safety officers play a key role in ensuring procedures are followed correctly. Proactively seeking mentorship and continuous training helps in managing these challenges and building confidence in laboratory operations.

What is the difference between Assistant Radiochemist vs Radiochemist?

AspectAssistant RadiochemistRadiochemist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in chemistry, radiochemistry, or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's or master's degree; advanced certifications like NRC or equivalent often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, nuclear medicine departmentsResearch labs, production facilities, regulatory agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in radiochemical experiments, sample preparation, safety proceduresDesign experiments, analyze data, oversee radiochemical processes

The Assistant Radiochemist typically supports senior staff with laboratory tasks and safety protocols, while the Radiochemist leads research projects and manages radiochemical processes. Both roles require a strong background in chemistry and radiochemistry, but the Radiochemist usually has more experience and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radiochemist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Radiochemist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Radiochemist jobs in California?

For Assistant Radiochemist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Radiochemist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Radiochemist jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Assistant Radiochemist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$200K - $320K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

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Job description

Application Window
Open date: September 1, 2026
Next review date: Thursday, Oct 1, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Wednesday, Mar 1, 2028 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
The Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging at the University of California, San Francisco invites candidates to apply for the position of Faculty Radiochemist. The selected candidate will be appointed at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor in the In Residence or Adjunct series depending on qualifications and interests.
The candidate will work collaboratively with faculty within the Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging and other departments at UCSF to advance the development of new molecular imaging agents, from early tracer development to first-in-man clinical studies. The successful candidate will establish and maintain a nationally recognized, externally funded research program, mentor students and postdoctoral researchers, and participate in departmental, university, and professional service activities. Required qualifications (to be met by the time of the faculty appointment start date) include:
  • Ph.D. in Radiochemistry, Nuclear Chemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related discipline.
  • At least two years postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
  • Has demonstrated success in securing external research funding as principal investigator and/or in collaboration.
  • Evidence of expertise in radiochemistry and related experimental methodologies.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Commitment to excellence in teaching, mentorship, and collaborative research.

Preferred qualifications include:
  • Expertise in nuclear chemistry, targeted radionuclide therapy, radiopharmaceutical production, and regulatory oversight of radiopharmaceuticals in human subjects.
  • Experience working with multiple radionuclides, including radiometals and radiohalogens, for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
  • Experience in the development and radiolabeling of small molecules for diagnostic and/or therapeutic applications.
  • Experience in the development and radiolabeling of biologics for diagnostic and/or therapeutic applications.
  • Experience with radiopharmaceutical production workflows.
  • Experience with regulatory submissions for first-in-human radiopharmaceutical work (IRB, FDA IND applications).
  • Experience working with radiation safety programs and regulatory compliance.
  • Record of interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment.

Specific areas of expertise with regards to disease focus are flexible and could include neurological, oncology, cardiology, or other clinical applications. The successful candidate will work with basic scientists and clinical researchers in planning, conducting, and evaluating data. Faculty are required to teach residents, fellows, medical students, and master's students.
The total compensation for this position ranges from $200,000-$320,000.
Total compensation at the University of California, San Francisco includes your base salary, which is determined by your rank and step at appointment, and negotiated pay for Health Sciences Compensation Plan members. Faculty who are members of the Health Sciences Compensation Plan may also be eligible for additional incentive pay.
The UCSF Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging offers faculty salaries that are highly competitive with the national radiology benchmarks. The University of California provides employees with comprehensive health and retirement benefit packages, in addition to many other benefits. For more information, please click here .
Please click here to apply with a cover letter and CV. In the cover letter, please include a brief description of prior teaching and research experience. Applicant materials must list current and/or pending qualifications upon submission.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Cover Letter - In the cover letter, please include a brief description of prior teaching and research experience.
  • Curriculum Vitae - CV must clearly list current and/or pending qualifications (e.g. board eligibility/certification, medical licensure, etc.).
  • Statement of Research (Optional)
  • Statement of Teaching (Optional)

About UC San Francisco
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
UCSF is committed to welcoming and serving all people, honoring the dignity of every individual without preference or prejudice, in support of its public mission and in alignment with our PRIDE values and Principles of Community.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
• APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment
Job location
San Francisco, CA

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