What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research And Development Specialist position at Ayutara?
Company Description
Ayutara Inc. is a radiopharmaceutical biotechnology company based in Frisco, Texas, focusing on next-generation targeted alpha therapies (TATs) and precision diagnostic agents for high-mortality cancers. The company leverages advanced ligand design, computational modeling, radiochemistry, and translational oncology to create innovative treatments. Ayutara's solutions are designed to improve tumor selectivity, optimize pharmacokinetics, and ensure durable tumor retention, addressing limitations of first-generation radiotherapeutics. By combining computational drug design, high-affinity scaffolds, and optimized chelators, Ayutara maximizes clinical performance and safety in its differentiated pipeline of Actinium-225 and Copper-64 theragnostics.
Role Description
Company: Ayutara
Location: U.S.-based / On site (University of Tennessee Knoxville lab)
Position Type: Contract
This is a contract, on-site role based in University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN for a Research and Development (R&D) Specialist. The R&D Specialist will be responsible for conducting and managing laboratory research, analyzing data, and contributing to the development of innovative therapeutics. Additional responsibilities include collaborating across teams, producing reports, and ensuring research aligns with company objectives and industry standards.
Key Responsibilities
● Design and execute preclinical pharmacology studies for radiopharmaceutical candidates
● Conduct in vitro cellular assays, including cell binding and uptake, MTT viability assays, clonogenic survival, and receptor saturation/competition assays
● Evaluate radiation-induced biological effects, including DNA damage, apoptosis, and cell cycle alterations
● Prepare and manage in vivo tumor models and perform radiopharmaceutical therapy experiments
● Perform radiolabeling of small molecules and peptides (Cu-64, Lu-177, Ac-225 preferred)
● Conduct and interpret in vivo imaging studies using PET/CT and SPECT
● Perform ex vivo biodistribution (BioD) analyses, including tumor uptake, organ clearance, and time-activity curves
● Support dosimetry calculations using biodistribution and imaging data (OLINDA/EXM or equivalent)
● Conduct histological and tissue-based analyses, including H&E staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC)
● Coordinate PK/PD and target engagement studies in relevant tumor models
● Analyze experimental, imaging, and biodistribution data; maintain detailed records; and contribute to study reports, manuscripts, and regulatory documentation
● Collaborate with CROs, academic partners, and internal teams on GLP and non-GLP studies
● Support FDA IND submissions, including Nonclinical Module 4 and Investigator’s Brochure content
● Ensure compliance with radiation safety, animal welfare, and institutional regulations
Qualification
● MS or Ph.D. in Biology, Biotechnology, Nuclear Medicine, Radiochemistry, or a related field
● Strong hands-on experience with cell culture and in-vitro techniques
● Familiarity with assays such as MTT/XTT, clonogenic assays, flow cytometry, or microscopy
● Hands-on experience in radiopharmaceutical preclinical studies
● Expertise in biodistribution, dosimetry, and preclinical imaging (PET/SPECT)
● Familiarity with IND-enabling nonclinical requirements for radiopharmaceuticals
● Experience working in a startup or translational research environment is a plus