Senior Scientist, Molecular Pharmacology

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 the 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.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Senior Scientist within the Molecular Pharmacology group will work in cross-functional teams to identify and develop 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 early discovery and lead optimization activities. Through project leadership and experimental activities, the team member will find solutions to program-related challenges in order to advance programs as part of the Biology Team.

BACKGROUND / TRAINING

• Ph.D. in a biotechnology-related field (e.g. pharmacology, biology, or similar disciplines) or Bachelor's or Master's degree in similar disciplines with a strong track record of industry-related experience and accomplishments. Experience in oncology or cancer biology is preferred, but not required.
• Minimum of 2 years of biopharmaceutical research experience in drug discovery and/or translational research with a Ph.D. or 10 years of experience required with a Bachelor's or Master's degree.

EXPERIENCE / ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Experience with the application and development of basic science methodologies to support complex strategies and enable the advancement of Company objectives.
• Demonstrated success with the development, execution, and interpretation of in vitro screening experiments to explore the therapeutic potential of drug targets and drive development programs.
• Strong technical background in planning, designing, executing, and documenting pre-clinical in vitro pharmacology experiments in order to evaluate target biology and characterize the efficacy and safety of development candidates.
  • Required expertise includes:
    • Target engagement assay development
    • Biophysical characterization of target-ligand binding by surface plasmon resonance (SPR)
    • Mammalian cell culture/cell line engineering
    • Knowledge of medium-throughput cell-based assays and in vitro pharmacology (e.g. ligand-binding assays)
    • Common molecular and biochemical techniques (DNA/RNA isolation, qPCR, Western, ELISA, antibody characterization and QC, etc.)
  • Preferred expertise includes:
    • Experience driving screening funnels to evaluate candidate molecules through lead optimization work-flows
    • Flow cytometry
    • Mechanism of action studies
• Demonstrated success in the areas of lead discovery and optimization along with a track record of integration with matrixed project teams.
• Demonstrated ability to gather relevant information systematically, break down problems into simple components, and make sound decisions.
• Willingness to take on new challenges and build a culture of rigor and data-driven decision-making to bring novel therapies to the clinic.
• Effectively communicates and collaborates with other R&D team members and collaborators to progress the development of candidate compounds.
• Demonstrated high standards for scientific rigor, team behaviors, excellence, and building a culture of innovation that is fully aligned with the company objectives.
• Demonstrated tenacity and drive for enterprise benefit.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills.
• Thrives in a fast-paced, ever-changing growth environment with the ability to work independently.
• 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.