Join the Oncology Voice Network. Join for Free
Back to Career Growth Hub

Join free to apply and get matched.

Browse roles anytime — create a free OVN account to apply and stay visible to employers.

Aktis Oncology logo

Scientist​/Sr Scientist, Molecular Pharmacology

Aktis Oncology · Chapel Hill, NC

Visit company website
FULL-TIME Posted Sep 18, 2026 120K–190K a year

Job Description

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 mini protein radio conjugate 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 mini protein radio conjugate 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 mini protein platform to develop novel radio conjugates 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
• 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

Required expertise includes:
• Mammalian cell culture / cell line engineering
• Knowledge of…

Additional Details

City
Chapel Hill
State
North Carolina
Country
US
Apply Now

Apply and matching require a free OVN account. Browse listings anytime without signing in.

Browse all jobs · More roles at Aktis Oncology