Research Project Leader Radiochemistry

Headline

Do you want to play a key role in the development of radiochemical cutting edge technology?

Highlights

• unique chance to be part of a successful and dedicated development team specialized in radiochemistry and process chemistry from lab to pilot scale
• you are responsible for the research and development of novel radiochemical processes
• you lead and contribute to the development of state of the art process equipment for radiochemical applications integrated in glove boxes and hotcells
• Master or PhD degree in the domains of Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Nuclear Technology

Job description

Radiochemical processes are a key aspect in various strategic topics that are explored at SCK CEN. We want to play an important role in climate-neutral energy production by developing innovative nuclear systems such as small modular reactors (SMR). Closing the nuclear fuel cycle by aqueous and pyrochemical processes will be essential to reach the full benefit of waste minimization and resource optimization of this new generation of SMRs. Also in the fight against cancer, the production of medical radio-isotopes requires essential radiochemical separation and recycling steps. 
The radiochemistry expert group (RCY) at SCK CEN executes research and development projects in the domains of nuclear fuel cycle and medical radio-isotopes. To support these ongoing activities we are looking for a research project leader. 
Are you looking for a new professional challenge where you can develop your talents and lift your skills to a higher level? Do you like working in a team of enthusiastic colleagues? Do not hesitate and send in your candidature. 
As a research project leader in the radiochemistry team you will be instrumental in the development of state of the art radiochemical processes to support the development of various domains such as medical radio-isotope recycling and Small Modular Reactors (SMR). 

• you contribute independently to projects within the radiochemical process technology program, taking responsibility for the results, timing, budget and administration
• you gather knowledge on radiochemical processes through scientific literature, participation to international conferences and meetings
• you design and implement innovative chemical process installations in collaboration with the internal engineering office at SCK CEN
• you organize chemical experiments and determine, optimize and validate chemical process parameters
• you lead the safety studies and risk assessments towards operational licenses and permits required to get permission to conduct the experiments
• you critically analyze and process experimental results in internal reports, scientific publications and presentations at international conferences and project meetings
• you lead a team of qualified researchers, engineers and lab technicians
• you efficiently interact with all project stakeholders from suppliers to clients

Job requirements

• Master or PhD degree in the domains of Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Nuclear Technology
• proven track record of leading projects related to chemical process design
• expertise in radiochemistry and radiochemical analyses is a strong asset
• experience with design and development of chemical process installations or experience with glove boxes or hotcells is an asset
• willing to work with radioactive materials in controlled areas
• creative, result-oriented and independent
• team player with good organizational and management skills, able to lead a multidisciplinary team in an international context
• strong in summarizing, reporting and presenting scientific data in a comprehensible way
• good knowledge of English is essential, knowledge of Dutch is an asset