Senior Scientist – RC Discovery Biology

Job Title: Senior Scientist – RC Discovery Biology

Location: Hamilton, Ontario

Onsite 5 days/week

Fusion Pharmaceuticals, a member of the AstraZeneca Group, is a clinical-stage oncology company focused on developing next-generation radioconjugates (RCs) as precision medicines.  Fusion connects alpha particle emitting isotopes to various targeting molecules to selectively deliver the alpha emitting payloads to tumors.  Fusion’s clinical portfolio includes:  FPI-2265 targeting prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) for metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer currently in a Phase 2 trial;  FPI-1434 targeting insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor currently in a Phase 1 trial;  FPI-2059, a small molecule targeting neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1), currently in a Phase 1 trial; and FPI-2068, a bispecific IgG-based EGFR-cMET targeted radioconjugate currently in a Phase 1 trial.  In addition, Fusion is pursuing combination programs between RCs and DNA Damage Response Inhibitors (DDRis) and immune-oncology agents. Fusion has a fully operational Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) compliant innovative radiopharmaceutical manufacturing facility to meet supply demand for Fusion's growing pipeline of RCs. 

Introduction to role

As a Senior Scientist in radioconjugate drug discovery, this role drives innovative research at the interface of tumor and radiation biology. Fully competent in a defined Bioscience area, this position initiates, directs and performs complex experiments, shapes scientific strategy, and supports project progression from early discovery towards the clinic. Working with limited supervision, this role also advises and trains less experienced scientists and may take on supervisory responsibilities without formal line management.

Accountabilities

• Serve as an independent technical lead for radioconjugate programs, collaborating with cross-functional teams and external partners to generate critical program data for project milestone decisions
• Executes radioconjugate (RC) drug discovery research experiments independently in the lab by applying the techniques of molecular and cellular biology, radiation biology, mechanism of action studies and immunohistochemistry
• Lead preclinical in vitro pharmacology studies, including radioligand binding, internalization, and retention assays; supports in vivo pharmacology through study designs and data interpretation
• Analyzes and presents results to core project teams, prepares materials for governance interactions, and deliver program updates across internal forums
  • May lead radioconjugate portfolio projects and/or support a project team and work collaboratively with project managers to ensure the efficient relay of information and forward translation of data
  • Assesses and reports data, with little or no guidance, in a clear and concise manner, with a clear understanding of its implications within the overall context of drug discovery projects

• Stay up-to-date with technical, intellectual, and scientific expertise in cancer biology and modeling, particularly related to targeted radioconjugates
• Coordinates project activities and provides scientific mentorship to junior scientists
  • Ensures own work, and work of peers, is compliant with Good Laboratory Standards (GLS), Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) standards, Radiation Safety and all other relevant internal AstraZeneca standards and external regulations

Essential Skills/Experience

• PhD Degree with 3+ years of experience, Master’s Degree with 5+ years of experience, or a Bachelor’s Degree with 7+ years and project leadership experience in a relevant discipline related to tumor and radiation biology
• Proven track record of contributing to multidisciplinary project teams, influencing scientific direction and delivering data that supports progression decisions.
• Strong communication skills, with experience presenting complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences and preparing materials for governance or external interactions.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor or guide junior scientists in experimental design, data analysis and scientific thinking.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Radioconjugate experience, including hands-on work with targeted radioconjugate platforms or radioligand-based assays.
• Experience in the biopharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, ideally within oncology or radiopharmaceutical drug discovery.

Why AstraZeneca:
At AstraZeneca, you will work where bold science meets practical impact—sitting alongside imaging specialists, clinicians, data scientists, and biologists to challenge assumptions and move at pace. Our pipeline is fueled by unparalleled data and an interdisciplinary approach that blends novel biomarkers, AI-enabled insights, and innovative endpoints to reimagine how cancer is treated. We value kindness alongside ambition and empower people to take smart risks, learn quickly, and see their ideas translate into real options for patients worldwide.

SO, WHAT’S NEXT?

To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please complete the full application on our website at your earliest convenience – it is the only way that our Recruiter and Hiring Manager can know that you feel well qualified for this opportunity.  If you know someone who would be a great fit, please share this posting with them.

Recognizing the importance of individualized flexibility, our ways of working allow employees to balance personal and work commitments while ensuring we continue to create a strong culture of collaboration and teamwork by engaging face-to-face in our offices 3 days a week. Our head office is purposely designed with collaboration in mind, providing space where teams can come together to strategize, brainstorm and connect on key projects.

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Are you interested in working at AZ, apply today!

AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion and providing a workplace that is free from discrimination. AstraZeneca is committed to accommodating persons with disabilities. Such accommodation is available on request in respect of all aspects of the recruitment, assessment and selection process and may be requested by emailing AZCHumanResources@astrazeneca.com.

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Annual base salary for this position ranges from 108,713.60 to 142,686.60.

AstraZeneca is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation opportunities to all colleagues. Our compensation policies and practices have been designed to allow colleagues to progress through the salary range over time as they progress in their role. The range provided in this posting represents an offer pay range used in a majority of situations. The base pay offered will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including the candidate's skills and experience, job-related knowledge, and other specific business and organizational needs.  In some cases, offers outside the range may also be considered to address unique circumstances.

In addition, our permanent positions offer an annual Variable Pay Bonus/Short Term Incentive opportunity as well as eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (if applicable to role).  Benefits offered for permanent roles include a competitive Flex Benefits & Retirement Savings Program, 4 weeks’ paid vacation, and annual Personal Days. Fixed Term Contract/Temporary positions (excluding students) are offered a Contract Benefits Program.

We are using AI as part of the recruitment process.

This advertisement relates to a current vacancy.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.