Careers
Sci./Sr Scientist, Molecular Pharmacology
Durham, NC, USA
Posted on Aug 22, 2026
Aktis Oncology, Inc. is a clinical-stage oncology company focused on expanding the breakthrough potential of targeted radiopharmaceuticals to large patient populations, including those not addressed by existing platform technologies. Aktis’ most-advanced program, AKY-1189, is a miniprotein radioconjugate targeting Nectin-4, with multi-indication potential across multiple tumor types, including locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer, breast cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, colorectal cancer, cervical cancer, and head and neck cancer. Aktis’ second pipeline program, AKY-2519, is a miniprotein radioconjugate targeting B7-H3 expressing tumors, including prostate, lung, and other solid tumors. Aktis has a strategic collaboration with Eli Lilly and Company to leverage its miniprotein platform to develop novel radioconjugates outside of Aktis’ proprietary pipeline.
The Scientist/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. They will independently apply and develop cutting-edge tools and methodologies to enable 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 preferred, but not required.
- Minimum of 2 years of biopharmaceutical research experience in drug discovery and/or translational research with Ph.D. or 5+ years of experience required with Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
EXPERIENCE / ACCOMPLISHMENTS
- Experience with application and development of basic science methodologies to support complex strategies and enable advancement of Company objectives.
- Demonstrated success with the development, execution and interpretation of in vitro screening experiments to explore 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
- 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:
- Development of physiologically relevant in vitro cell and tissue culture systems; primary cell culture considered a plus
- Experience driving screening funnels to evaluate candidate molecules through lead optimization workflows
- Flow cytometry
- Mechanism of action studies
- Required expertise includes:
- 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 development candidate compounds
- Demonstrated high standards for scientific rigor, team behaviors, excellence and building a culture of innovation that is fully aligned with 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
Aktis Oncology is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any classification protected by federal, state, or local law.