Translational Radioligand Development Scientist

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Job Category:Academic Staff
Employment Type:Regular
Job Profile:Scientist I
Job Summary:
The Nirschl and Kolb laboratories at the University of Wisconsin–Madison invite applications for a Scientist I or II to contribute to the discovery and development of novel PET imaging tracers targeting pathological protein aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia, and ALS. These efforts support multi-institutional collaborations focused on improving early diagnosis and therapeutic development. The successful candidate will lead discovery/optimization by setting up and executing custom tissue-based assays, including autoradiography and radioligand binding assays, competition assays, and immunoassays or immunostaining, to evaluate compound binding affinity and specificity in human and animal biospecimens. Additional responsibilities include radioligand displacement studies, immunohistochemical validation, and biochemical extraction of pathological proteins from brain tissue. The role also involves conducting surface plasmon resonance (SPR) experiments to quantify molecular interactions. These efforts are critical to lead compound optimization and translational imaging biomarker validation.
Applicants should have demonstrated expertise in tissue assay development, protein biochemistry, or molecular imaging and the ability to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. We seek applicants with a track record of outstanding research accomplishments and an ability to work in a highly collegial and collaborative academic environment. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements for appointment as Scientist I or II under the UW School of Medicine and Public Health guidelines.
It is expected that the successful applicant will have a broad knowledge base in bioassay development, including:
Tissue homogenization, biochemical extraction and purification of pathological proteins from brain tissue samples,
Autoradiography assays using tissue slices or filter binding assays with tissue homogenates enriched for specific proteins/subcellular fractions,
Surface Plasmon Resonance measurements for assessing molecular interactions,
Biostatistical and computational analysis skills to inform Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) and accelerate hit-to-lead development,
Histopathological characterization of brain tissue samples.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison is a world-class academic institution with an international reputation for basic, translational and cross-disciplinary research and is located in the heart of one of the country's most livable cities. The Department of Medical Physics is one of 10 basic science and 17 clinical departments in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Medical Physics faculty research is broadly focused on using physical principles to improve our understanding of the biological basis of disease and health, improving our ability to non-invasively diagnose disease as early as possible, and for developing, guiding, and non-invasively assessing therapeutic interventions. Together with our clinical colleagues, we advance state-of-the-art patient care by developing, validating, and translating novel imaging systems, minimally invasive, personalized treatments, and early treatment assessment into the clinical environment.
This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.
Candidates who demonstrate the following knowledge, skills, and abilities will be given first consideration:
Advanced experience in tissue-based assay development, including autoradiography and radioligand binding assays, bioassay development, and compound screening using both tissue slices and purified proteins.
Proficiency in biochemical extraction and purification of pathological proteins (e.g., α-synuclein, tau, TDP43) from human and/or animal brain tissue.
Demonstrated ability to perform competitive binding and displacement assays to quantify tracer specificity and affinity.
Experience conducting Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) experiments or related biophysical assays for assessing molecular interactions.
Biostatistical and/or computational analysis skills to inform Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) and accelerate hit-to-lead development
Familiarity with medicinal chemistry concepts/techniques as well as techniques such as histopathology, immunostaining, and tissue-based assays.
Strong record of collaborative research in interdisciplinary, multi-site translational programs.
Ability to independently troubleshoot experimental systems and contribute to project design.
Commitment to maintaining high standards of scientific rigor, analysis, and documentation.
Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively in academic research.
Key Job Responsibilities:
Assists with the identification of research problems and the development of research methodologies and procedures
Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities
Contributes to invention disclosures and intellectual property documentation related to new imaging agents.
Writes or assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
Assists with ordering, tracking, and maintenance of lab instruments and radiolabeled compounds; ensuring appropriate safety, documentation and regulatory compliance (e.g., EH&S, ORS).
Serves as a main point of contact and liaison with internal and external stakeholders providing information and representing the interests of a specialized research area
Collects and analyzes research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures under general supervision and limited responsibility
Attends and assists with the facilitation of scholarly events and presentations in support of continued professional development and the dissemination of research information
Department:
School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Nirschl Lab
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine is dedicated to the highest quality patient care, cutting-edge and impactful research, and teaching the next generation of pathologists and scientists. We emphasize a healthy work-life balance and provide a supportive work environment committed to the growth and advancement of our members. Our vibrant clinical department integrates anatomic pathology, laboratory medicine, teaching, and a robust research enterprise, and serves the UW, American Family Children’s, VA, and other Madison hospitals. Our basic science and translational research programs have made fundamental discoveries in cell and stem cell biology, immunology, neuroscience, and infectious disease. Opportunities in education include a T32-funded PhD graduate program, pathology resident and fellowship programs, and both medical school and undergraduate curricula.
Madison, often rated as one of the best places to live in America, is built on an isthmus, surrounded by lakes. The city, campus, green spaces and urban areas are blended to create a place unlike any other.
Compensation:
The starting salary for the position is $80,000 annually, but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.
Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage. SMPH Faculty /Academic Staff Benefits Flyer 2026
Required Qualifications:
A minimum of 2 years of post-doctoral experience or equivalent industry experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Advanced experience in tissue-based assay development, including autoradiography and radioligand binding assays using both tissue slices and purified proteins.
Proficiency in biochemical extraction and purification of pathological proteins (e.g., α-synuclein, tau) from human and animal brain tissue.
Demonstrated ability to perform competitive binding and displacement assays to quantify tracer specificity and affinity.
Experience conducting Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) experime