Research Associate (65%) / PhD Candidate in Radiochemistry(m/f/d)

Application deadline: 15/07/2026

The University Hospital Würzburg is seeking a part-time Research Associate (65%) / PhD Candidate in Radiochemistry (m/f/d) at the Clinic and Polyclinic of Nuclear Medicine.

• A funded 65% research position with the opportunity to pursue a PhD under the supervision of Takahiro Higuchi
  
• Participation in innovative research projects at the interface of radiochemistry, molecular imaging, and translational medicine
  
• Access to state-of-the-art radiochemistry laboratories and preclinical imaging facilities
  
• Training in the development of novel radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostic and therapeutic applications
  
• An interdisciplinary and international research environment
  
• Opportunities for scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences
  
• Individual scientific mentoring and career development
  
• Collaboration with experts in chemistry, biology, radiopharmacy, and nuclear medicine

• Design and synthesis of precursor molecules for radiotracer development
• Development, optimization, and execution of radiolabeling protocols
• Purification and analytical characterization of synthesized compounds
• Application of analytical methods such as HPLC, TLC, and related quality control techniques
• Support of preclinical and translational evaluation of novel radiopharmaceuticals
• Documentation and presentation of research results
• Preparation of scientific manuscripts and conference contributions
• Active participation in collaborative research projects

Position Description

• The Department of Nuclear Medicine at the University Hospital Würzburg invites applications for a 65% Research Associate position with the opportunity to pursue a PhD in Radiochemistry.
• The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary research team focused on the development of innovative radiopharmaceuticals for molecular imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy. Research activities will include the synthesis of precursor molecules, development and optimization of radiolabeling procedures, analytical characterization, and translational evaluation of novel radiotracers.
• The project addresses a broad spectrum of diseases, including cardiovascular, oncological, and inflammatory disorders. Radiopharmaceutical development will involve diverse molecular platforms such as small molecules, peptides, antibodies, and nanoparticles.

Essential Qualifications

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Radiochemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline
• Strong background in organic synthesis
• Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills
• Good written and spoken English skills

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in radiochemistry and/or handling of radionuclides
• Experience with HPLC, TLC, and analytical characterization methods
• Knowledge of radiopharmaceutical development
• Experience in molecular imaging, nuclear medicine, or translational research
• Previous research experience demonstrated through laboratory projects, theses, or publications

Application Documents

Interested candidates should submit:

• Letter of motivation
• Curriculum vitae
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Contact details of referees and/or recommendation letters

• Challenging, diverse and evolving area of responsibility
• Attractive salary according to TV-L incl. annual special payment
• Training and Continuing Education
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Company daycare center with extended opening hours
• Company sports program
• Flexible Working Hours
• JobBike
• Corporate Benefits

In the case of a university degree from a non-EU country, a long version of the certificate evaluation from the Central Office for Foreign Education is required.

Remuneration is in accordance with the relevant collective agreements. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference if they are otherwise equally qualified.