Scientist/Sr Scientist, DMPK

Aktis Oncology; Durham (NC); On-site; USD 108,000 - 148,500; Full time

Job summary

A clinical-stage oncology company is seeking a Scientist/Senior Scientist to support miniprotein-based radioconjugate discovery programs. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in ADME/PK, hands-on bioanalytical experience, and excellent collaboration skills. Responsibilities include conducting method development and pharmacokinetic studies, while contributing to cross-functional teams. This position offers the chance to advance innovative cancer therapies in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Strong foundation in ADME/PK and relationship between PK and physicochemical properties.
• Hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS bioanalytical methods.
• Ability to communicate findings to cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bioanalytical method development and pharmacokinetic studies.
• Serve as DMPK representative on program teams.
• Advance understanding of proteolytic stability and pharmacokinetics.

Skills

ADME/PK knowledge

Bioanalytical method development

LC-MS/MS experience

Collaboration skills

Education

BS with 5+ years of relevant experience

MS with 2-3 years of relevant experience

PhD in a relevant scientific discipline

Tools

LC-MS/MS

High-resolution mass spectrometry

Job description

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16 days ago Requisition ID: 1044

Salary Range: $108,000.00 To $148,500.00 Annually

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 Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) group is recruiting a Scientist/Senior Scientist to support our miniprotein‑based radioconjugate discovery programs. The successful candidate will play a key role in advancing our understanding of proteolytic stability and pharmacokinetic profiling in preclinical species. Primary responsibilities include bioanalytical method development, qualification, and implementation, as well as design, execution, and interpretation of preclinical pharmacokinetic studies. In addition, the Scientist/Senior Scientist will serve as the DMPK representative on cross‑functional program teams, contributing scientific expertise to drive program progression.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BS with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, demonstrating hands‑on technical expertise, increasing independence, and contribution to cross‑functional project teams, or
• MS with 2-3 years of relevant biotech/pharma experience, or
• PhD in a relevant scientific or quantitative discipline (industry experience not required but desired)

EXPERIENCE / ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Strong foundation in ADME/PK and understanding of the relationship between PK behavior and physicochemical drug properties
• Demonstrated technical expertise in planning, designing, and executing both in vitro and preclinical in vivo experiments
• Hands‑on experience with LC‑MS/MS‑based bioanalysis, including strong troubleshooting and instrument problem‑solving skills
• Desired expertise includes experience with the following techniques and instrumentation:
  • LC‑MS/MS multiple reaction monitoring experiments
  • High‑resolution mass spectrometry for structural elucidation and soft‑spot identification
  • Bioanalytical method development and qualification
  • Complex matrix cleanup techniques, including solid‑phase extraction (SPE), ionic exchange methods, protein precipitation, and phospholipid removal
  • Application of analytical chemistry best practices and data quality standards
• Experience developing fit‑for‑purpose parenteral formulations to enable preclinical in vivo studies
• Background in authoring, reviewing, and contributing to study protocols and technical reports
• Demonstrated motivation to develop as a DMPK subject matter expert with the ability to clearly communicate findings to cross‑functional teams
• Willingness to take on new challenges and build a culture of data‑driven decision‑making to advance novel therapies to the clinic
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with experience working effectively with internal R&D team members and external collaborators
• Commitment to scientific rigor, positive team behaviors, and building a culture of innovation that is fully aligned with company objectives
• Demonstrated tenacity, ownership, and drive to deliver enterprise‑level impact

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Background in peptide and/or radiopharmaceuticals research
• Proven ability to work with CROs and external collaboration
• Hands‑on experience with pharmacokinetic analysis software and PK modeling
• Familiarity with Sciex LC‑MS instruments and associated software

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.