Senior Scientist, Translational Research

Aktis Oncology is a biotechnology company pioneering the discovery and development of a new class of targeted alpha radiopharmaceuticals to treat a broad range of solid tumor cancers. Founded and incubated by MPM Capital, the company has developed proprietary platforms to generate tumor targeting agents with ideal properties for alpha radiotherapy. Designed for high tumor penetration and long residence time, Aktis Oncology’s molecules will quickly clear other areas of the body, thereby maximizing tumor elimination while minimizing side effects of treatment. This approach would enable clinicians to visualize and verify target engagement prior to exposure to therapeutic radioisotopes. To learn more about Aktis Oncology, visit www.aktisoncology.com.

The Scientist in the Translational Biology group will work cross-functionally to support translational biology initiatives across the Aktis portfolio and advance the development of novel therapies to treat targeted patient populations within multiple oncology indications. She/he will independently apply and develop cutting-edge tools and methodologies to enable the advancement of company objectives with a focus on preclinical and early clinical biomarker activities and reverse translation. The translational biology team member will work internally and with CROs to implement the biomarker strategy and troubleshoot related challenges to advance programs towards the clinic as part of the Translational Biology Team.

BACKGOUND / TRAINING

• PhD or MS in cancer biology, oncology, or related fields.
• PhD with 2-5 years or MS with 8 years of experience in biopharmaceutical translational research.

EXPERIENCE / ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Demonstrated experience in design, execution, and interpretation of preclinical studies to characterize drug MoA/MoR and identify new biomarkers to drive development programs.
• Strong technical background in planning, designing, and executing pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo (required) experiments to identify novel biomarkers and characterize the efficacy of development candidates in relevant oncology models.
• Demonstrated experience in assay development and with the adoption of novel methodologies to enable the advancement of Company objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to derive scientific insights from complex data sets, break down problems into simple components, and effectively share findings with cross-functional colleagues.
• Experience conducting studies internally and working with external CROs.
• Effectively communicates and collaborates with other R&D team members, clinical team members, and collaborators to build and implement biomarker strategies in the clinic.
• Demonstrated high standards for scientific rigor, team behaviors, excellence, and building a culture of innovation that is fully aligned with company objectives.
• Highly collaborative, positive, and proactive individual.
• Thrives in fast-paced, flexible growth environments with the ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.
• Excellent time-management and communication skills.
• Strong desire to be part of a mission‐oriented company leading transformative change for patients.
• Proven demonstration of transparent communication and fostering open and diverse debate.
• Ability to work with agility and manage ambiguity.
• Personifies positive energy and exemplifies respect.

REQUIRED EXPETISE INCLUDES:

• Molecular techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, qPCR NGS)
• Common biomarker-related techniques (ELISA, IHC, MSD, flow etc)
• IF, IHC and/or pathology experience with cell lines or tissue sections
• Mammalian cell culture (cell lines and primary samples)
• In vitro pharmacology (cell-based dose response, cell death assays)
• Flow cytometry/Cell imaging (incucyte)

PREFERRED EXPERTISE INCLUDES:

• Mechanism of action studies
• In vivo pharmacology; PK/PD/Efficacy relationships
• Experience working with primary samples (ex vivo, blood, tissues…)
• Familiarity with omics data and public omics databases i.e., cBioportal, GTEX, Depmap
• Experience supporting IND-enabling studies and regulatory document preparation

Aktis Oncology is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Aktis Oncology is committed to promoting and maintaining a work environment in which all applicants, employees, and other individuals are treated with dignity and respect free from unlawful harassment, discrimination, or retaliation.