Job Description
Z-Alpha Therapeutics is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of radiotherapeutics targeting key biological pathways for solid tumors. The company has a revolutionary technology platform in the next generation of alpha particle therapy with potential to be a more targeted therapy, increasing efficacy and limiting toxicity compared to competitors in the radiotherapeutics space. The company has a world-class team of scientists with decades of experience and foundational intellectual property that enables the potential to bring multiple drug candidates into the clinic.
Job Purpose
Provide senior-level scientific, operational, and strategic leadership in radiopharmaceutical oncology drug development. Lead the design and execution of preclinical in vivo studies, radiochemistry applications, and translational strategies that support candidate nomination and early clinical development. The position is located in Durham, NC area and is full-time on site.
Requires Radiopharmaceutical experience.
Key Responsibilities
Scientific & Technical Leadership
- Design and execute biodistribution, dosimetry, PK / PD, tolerability, and efficacy studies in rodent xenograft models.
- Analyze tissues, plasma, and blood samples using gamma counting, blood analyzers, and in vitro assays.
- Oversee radiolabeling studies with therapeutic and imaging isotopes (e.g., ^225Ac, ^177Lu, ^211At) and ensure high-quality imaging and data interpretation (SPECT, PET, multimodal imaging).
- Prepare high-quality protocols, data packages, and reports that support IND-enabling studies, Investigator’s Brochures, and regulatory submissions.
- Contribute to the development of preclinical models for radioligand therapy in oncology models.
Operational & People Management
Manage CRO collaborations, including study design, execution, scheduling, and data / report review.Lead and mentor a cross functional team of scientists and technicians; provide training in rodent handling, surgical techniques, formulation prep, dosing (IV, PO, IP, SQ), and tissue collection.Supervise and train staff in rodent handling, tumor cell implantation, surgical procedures, and multiple routes of administration (IV, SQ, IP, PO).Establish and maintain SOPs for all in vivo and radiopharmaceutical procedures; ensure strict compliance with IACUC, radiation safety, and biohazard regulations.Manage vivarium operations, including equipment procurement, isotope inventory, waste management, and safety protocolsCross-Functional & Client-Facing
Collaborate closely with radiochemistry, biology, and clinical teams to align in vivo and imaging strategies with program objectives.Collaborate with business development to engage clients, scope projects, and deliver high-impact radiopharmaceutical oncology programs.Represent the organization at external meetings, author scientific publications, and contribute to the company’s reputation in radiopharmaceutical oncology.Required Competencies & Skills
Expert-level knowledge of xenograft tumor models, biodistribution studies, in vivo pharmacology, and radiopharmaceutical imaging.Radioligand therapy, imaging, strong vivarium / in vivo pharmacology skills and experience required.Experience with radiopharmaceutical vivaria related to set up, required modifications, strict safety protocols to contain radioactivity and protect personnel, the public, and the environment.Hands-on experience with therapeutic and diagnostic isotopes (^225Ac, ^177Lu, ^211At, ^18F, etc.) and associated imaging modalities (PET, SPECT).Strong background in oncology, pharmacology, radiobiology, PK / PD modeling, and targeted drug delivery.Relevant experience in establishing, overseeing, and maintaining the vivarium, including SOPs, animal welfare, isotope safety, waste management, equipment procurement, and regulatory licensing (IACUC, RSO, biohazard).Excellent communication, data presentation, and cross-functional collaboration skills.Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills; ability to implement and validate new techniques rapidly.Demonstrated ability to mentor and train junior scientists in vivo methodologies.Qualifications
Education : MS or PhD in Radiochemistry, Pharmacology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or related field. Equivalent advanced training and experience may be considered.Experience : 6–10 years of relevant experience in preclinical oncology drug development, with at least 2–3 years of management responsibility.Regulatory : Experience contributing to IND / IB filings and regulatory documentation.Other : Strong project management skills; ability to manage internal / external resources, budgets, and timelines.What We Offer
Opportunity to lead cutting-edge radiopharmaceutical oncology programs from discovery through IND.Hands-on science combined with strategic leadership and client engagement.A collaborative, multidisciplinary environment with room for growth into higher leadership roles.