Description

The Department of Radiology at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons invites applications for a faculty position as Director of Molecular Imaging Research. This leadership role is open across all academic ranks, with the potential for a tenure-track appointment based on the candidate's qualifications and career trajectory. Candidates from diverse backgrounds—including radiochemistry, molecular imaging science, and related fields—are encouraged to apply.

Salary range is $150,000 to $350,000. Salary and academic rank will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Columbia University offers a competitive benefits package, including tuition reimbursement, tuition exemption for faculty pursuing advanced degrees, retirement plans, and ample time off for vacation and CME.

We seek an innovative and collaborative leader with expertise in molecular imaging to further develop and expand our research and translational activities. Our ideal candidate has a proven record of research excellence in molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical development, or related disciplines. A strong publication record, experience in grant funding, and demonstrated leadership in academic settings are highly desirable. Excellent communication skills are equally important.

Program Highlights

Columbia’s Molecular Imaging Program features a world-class PET Center, including two cyclotrons supporting [13N], [15O] target production and dual-target capabilities for [11C] and [18F] isotopes. The program is equipped with three state-of-the-art PET scanners for both clinical and preclinical applications and has a robust infrastructure for isotope production, tracer development, and advanced imaging protocols. Strong industry partnerships provide exciting opportunities for innovation and collaboration in imaging sciences.

Responsibilities

The Director of Molecular Imaging Research will lead the Molecular Imaging Program, fostering multidisciplinary research and collaboration across Columbia University and its affiliates. Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and sustaining an independent and/or collaborative research program in molecular imaging, radiochemistry, or translational imaging
• Overseeing and expanding radiopharmaceutical development and PET imaging capabilities
• Developing and implementing a strategic plan to ensure leadership in PET chemistry/synthesis
• Leveraging the program’s cyclotron infrastructure to advance isotope production for clinical and research applications
• Establishing partnerships within the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC), the Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Department of Biomedical Informatics, the Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research and other departments and centers across Columbia
• Promoting collaborations with industry and funding agencies to drive innovation in molecular imaging
• Teaching and mentoring students, residents, fellows, and postdoctoral researchers
• Contributing to the Department’s clinical and translational imaging initiatives
• Collaboratively overseeing PET scanning research operations, including scanner utilization for research across Columbia University Irving Medical Center

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, and the contact information for three references to 

Stella Kang, MD, MS
Professor of Radiology
Vice Chair of Clinical Research
Department of Radiology
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
sk5603@cumc.columbia.edu

Education and Experience

• PhD in related field  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with faculty and staff, including technologists, researchers, and clinical scientists.  
• Interpersonal and leadership skills for molecular research program development.  

Environment

The Department of Radiology at Columbia University is home to more than 125 full-time faculty and performs more than 1 million imaging studies annually. The Molecular Imaging Program benefits from cutting-edge infrastructure, including PET scanners and cyclotrons, and a supportive environment fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC) and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital are internationally recognized for clinical and research excellence. Columbia provides unique opportunities for collaboration across its diverse academic ecosystem and offers an exceptional quality of life in the heart of New York City.

Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  

The above salary range represents Columbia’s good faith and reasonable estimate of possible compensation at the time of posting.