Principal Scientist/Associate Director, Translational Biology

Your Impact

Alpha-9 Oncology is seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist/Associate Director with a strong background in radiopharmaceutical drug discovery and nuclear medicine to join our innovative Translational Biology group. In this role, you will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Chemistry, Radiochemistry and Discovery  to drive the discovery and development of targeted radiopharmaceutical therapies. You’ll have the chance to make a real impact on our mission of advancing cancer treatment by contributing to cutting-edge radiopharmaceutical innovations.

Reporting to the Head of Translational Biology, you will play a key role in shaping the biology strategy for our pipeline of radiopharmaceuticals, enabling you to see the direct results of your contributions while growing alongside a passionate, dynamic team. This role is based in our Vancouver office.

How You'll Contribute

• Leading and directing the biology efforts for the discovery and development of radiopharmaceuticals targeting solid and hematologic cancers.
• Identify, design, execute, and oversee preclinical experiments to assess in vitro and in vivo efficacy, demonstrate mechanism of action (MoA), and optimize drug screening platforms.
• Establish in vitro and in vivo expertise for the Translational Biology group across the pipeline.
• Collaborate cross functionally with Chemistry, Radiochemistry and Discovery teams to ensure alignment and efficient execution of projects across the pipeline.
• Ensure efficient workflow within the Translational Biology group to keep timeline and assist in overseeing biology strategy across pipeline projects.
• Manage and mentor junior scientists, offering strategic guidance and overseeing experimental design, data analysis, data interpretation and the development of cutting-edge assays.
• Contribute to preclinical data analysis and interpretation, author study reports, and present key findings to senior stakeholders.
• Participate in the identification and validation of new therapeutic targets and innovate radiopharmaceutical screening methodologies.
• Engage with CROs and external collaborators to ensure project execution and achievement of milestones.
• Contribute to IND submissions and regulatory filings, providing data that supports the transition of preclinical programs into clinical development.
• Shape the growth of the Translational Biology group, fostering a collaborative and high-performance team culture.

The Skills You Bring

• Ph.D. in Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or related field, with 6-10 years of industry experience.
• Expertise in radiopharmaceutical discovery, nuclear medicine, and drug screening technologies.
• Strong proficiency in in vitro and in vivo experimental design, with a preference for in vivo experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage projects, and mentor junior scientists.
• Excellent communication skills, with experience presenting scientific findings to cross-functional teams and senior leadership.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

What's in it for you

At Alpha-9 Oncology, we offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support all employees. Our benefits include a competitive salary, bonus, equity, 20 vacation days, 5 sick days, a technology allowance, and commuter reimbursement. We also provide generous retirement savings plans with employer matching, extended health benefits, and paid holidays, tailored to local standards in each region. While specific offerings may vary by location, our commitment to fostering a supportive and rewarding work environment is consistent across the company.

Company Summary

Alpha-9 Oncology is a clinical-stage biotechnology company pioneering radiopharmaceutical innovation for solid tumors. Our proprietary scaffolds, composed of optimized binders, linkers, chelators, and radioisotopes, enable targeted radiation delivery to cancer cells, minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue. Focusing on innovative targeting moieties, we develop molecules tailored for precise tumor targeting.

Our comprehensive platform integrates imaging and therapeutic studies to ensure effective radiation delivery and improved patient outcomes. With a robust pipeline entering clinical trials and strong support from leading healthcare investors, Alpha-9 is positioned for rapid growth and advancement in cancer therapy.

More about Alpha-9 Oncology

Alpha-9 Oncology is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, family status, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, provincial, or local laws where we operate.

We are dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants and employees to ensure that everyone can perform their essential job functions in an inclusive environment. For inquiries regarding accommodations in the hiring process or for current employees, please contact a member from our Talent Acquisition team.