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CytomX Therapeutics Inc. - Senior Research Scientist, Antibody Engineering

Jul 03, 2026  Twila Rosenbaum 12 views
CytomX Therapeutics Inc. - Senior Research Scientist, Antibody Engineering

1. Introduction to CytomX Therapeutics Inc.

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company headquartered in South San Francisco, California, focused on developing novel antibody-based therapies for cancer. The company’s proprietary Probody™ technology platform enables the creation of conditionally activated antibodies that remain inactive in healthy tissue but become active in the tumor microenvironment. This innovative approach has positioned CytomX as a leader in the field of immuno-oncology, with a robust pipeline of product candidates targeting a range of solid tumors. The company is publicly traded on the Nasdaq under the ticker CTMX and has established strategic partnerships with major pharmaceutical companies such as Bristol-Myers Squibb, Amgen, and AbbVie. With a workforce of approximately 200 employees, CytomX has earned a reputation for scientific excellence and a patient-centric approach to drug development. The company’s mission to transform the lives of cancer patients through smarter, safer therapies is supported by a strong financial position and a clear focus on advancing its pipeline into late-stage clinical trials.

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. operates within the competitive biotechnology sector, distinguished by its unique Probody platform that addresses the limitations of traditional antibody therapies, including on-target off-tumor toxicity. The company’s ability to selectively activate therapeutic antibodies in the tumor microenvironment has broad implications for improving the therapeutic index of potent immune-oncology agents. As a result, CytomX is not only advancing its own pipeline but also enabling partners to develop safer versions of their own antibody-drug conjugates and bispecifics. The company’s industry reputation is bolstered by numerous publications in high-impact journals and presentations at major oncology conferences. Organizations ranging from large pharmaceutical companies to academic research centers collaborate with CytomX to leverage its technology for next-generation cancer treatments.

2. Company History and Business Evolution

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. was founded in 2008 by a team of experienced scientists and entrepreneurs, including Dr. Stephen Yoder, Dr. William Mallet, and Dr. Benjamin B. Chau. The company was built upon the groundbreaking concept of engineering antibodies that are masked in normal tissues but unmasked by proteases commonly upregulated in tumors. This idea originated from research at the University of Washington and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. In its early years, CytomX operated as a virtual company, securing seed funding from angel investors and small venture capital firms. The company achieved its first major milestone in 2011 with a $30 million Series A financing led by The Column Group and venBio Partners. This capital enabled CytomX to expand its research team and initiate preclinical development of its lead candidate, CX-072, a Probody therapeutic targeting PD-L1.

Over the next decade, CytomX Therapeutics Inc. evolved from a small startup into a publicly traded company with a diverse pipeline. In 2014, the company entered into a landmark collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb to develop Probodies for up to six immuno-oncology targets. This deal provided up to $1.5 billion in potential milestones and established CytomX as a key player in the field. In 2016, the company went public through an initial public offering (IPO), raising $85 million. Subsequent partnerships with Amgen (2017) and AbbVie (2018) further validated the platform and provided additional non-dilutive funding. The company also progressed its internal pipeline: CX-072 entered Phase 2 trials, and CX-2009 (a Probody drug conjugate targeting CD166) advanced into Phase 1/2. In 2020, CytomX announced positive initial clinical data for CX-2009, demonstrating encouraging anti-tumor activity. The company faced challenges in 2021-2022 amid a broader biotech downturn but continued to advance its programs through strategic portfolio prioritization. In 2023, CytomX reported updated Phase 1/2 results for its lead assets and initiated a new collaboration with Moderna to combine Probodies with mRNA technology. This evolution underscores the company’s resilience and commitment to innovation.

3. CytomX Therapeutics Inc. at a Glance

  • Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, USA
  • Founded: 2008
  • CEO: Sean A. McCarthy (since 2016)
  • Revenue: Approximately $40 million (2022); primarily from collaborations
  • Employees: ~200
  • Stock Symbol: CTMX (Nasdaq)
  • Industry: Biotechnology – Oncology
  • Key Technology: Probody™ platform (conditionally activated antibodies)
  • Pipeline Stage: Clinical-stage (Phase 1/2)
  • Major Partners: Bristol-Myers Squibb, Amgen, AbbVie, Moderna
  • Therapeutic Focus: Solid tumors, immunotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates
  • Scientific Publications: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles
  • Patents: More than 100 granted patents worldwide
  • Awards: FierceBiotech’s “Fierce 15” in 2015
  • Clinical Trials: Active trials for CX-072, CX-2009, and others
  • Funding Raised: Over $500 million (including IPO and partnerships)
  • Lab Space: 50,000 square feet in South San Francisco
  • Corporate Culture: Collaborative, innovative, patient-focused
  • Environmental Commitment: Sustainable lab practices and green chemistry
  • Recognition: Named one of “Best Places to Work” by San Francisco Business Times

4. Mission, Vision, and Core Corporate Values

Mission: CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is dedicated to developing smarter, safer cancer therapies that improve patient outcomes by selectively targeting the tumor microenvironment. The company strives to unlock the full potential of antibody-based treatments while minimizing systemic toxicity.

Vision: To become the global leader in conditionally activated antibodies, creating a new standard of care for cancer patients. CytomX envisions a future where potent cancer drugs can be administered with fewer side effects, enabling longer and better lives.

Core Values: The company lives by core values that include Scientific Rigor – grounding decisions in data and evidence; Collaboration – fostering partnerships both internally and externally; Patient Centricity – always prioritizing the needs and safety of patients; Integrity – conducting business with transparency and ethical standards; and Innovation – continuously pushing the boundaries of science. These values are embedded in every department, from research to corporate affairs, and are reflected in the company’s policies and employee behaviors. CytomX also emphasizes Diversity and Inclusion as fundamental to driving creativity and impactful science.

5. Business Strategy and Future Roadmap

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. employs a dual-pronged business strategy: advancing its proprietary pipeline of Probody therapeutics while simultaneously expanding its platform through strategic collaborations. The company prioritizes product candidates with high unmet medical need and clear differentiation, such as CX-2009 (a Probody-drug conjugate targeting CD166) and CX-072 (anti-PD-L1 Probody). By retaining full ownership of certain programs, CytomX positions itself to capture more value from successful approvals. Simultaneously, the company partners with global pharmaceutical leaders to co-develop Probodies against high-value targets, generating non-dilutive funding and reducing clinical risk. For example, the collaboration with Bristol-Myers Squibb enables the development of up to six immuno-oncology Probodies, with CytomX receiving milestones and royalties.

Looking forward, CytomX plans to submit Investigational New Drug (IND) applications for two new pipeline candidates by 2025, focusing on next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and bispecific antibodies. The company is also investing in next-generation platform enhancements, such as the development of “half-life extended” Probodies and Probodies that activate in response to multiple tumor-specific signals. Additionally, CytomX is exploring the application of its technology outside oncology, including autoimmune diseases and infectious diseases, through early-stage research. Financially, the company aims to achieve profitability by 2026 through a combination of partnership milestones, cost discipline, and potential product approvals. The roadmap includes expanding clinical operations to include multiple global sites and building a commercial infrastructure to support future product launches.

6. Products, Technologies, and Services

Probody™ Platform: The core technology at CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is the Probody platform, which involves designing antibodies with a masking peptide that blocks the antigen-binding site. This mask is cleavable by proteases that are overexpressed in the tumor microenvironment. Once the Probody reaches the tumor, the mask is removed, and the antibody becomes fully active. This results in high local drug activity and reduced systemic side effects. The platform can be applied to various antibody formats, including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, and CAR-T cells.

Pipeline Products: The company’s lead product candidates include: CX-072 (anti-PD-L1 Probody) in Phase 2 for multiple solid tumors; CX-2009 (Probody-drug conjugate targeting CD166) in Phase 1/2; and CX-2029 (anti-CD71 Probody-drug conjugate) in Phase 1. Additionally, several preclinical candidates are in development, including a Probody-bispecific targeting EGFR and CD3, and a Probody-ADC targeting PTK7. The company also provides platform licensing services to partners, offering access to the Probody technology for their own targets. This includes research reagents, cell lines, and technical support.

7. Industries and Markets Served

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. primarily serves the biopharmaceutical industry, specifically companies engaged in oncology drug development. Its products are used by both large pharma and biotech firms seeking to improve the safety and efficacy of antibody-based therapies. The company also serves academic research institutions through collaborative research agreements and material transfer agreements. Additionally, CytomX’s technology has potential applications in diagnostic imaging and theranostics, as the conditional activation principle can be used to create imaging agents that light up only in tumors. The global market for cancer therapies is worth over $150 billion, and CytomX targets the segment of immune-oncology and ADCs, which is growing rapidly. Geographically, the company focuses on the United States, but through partnerships it has a presence in Europe, Asia, and other regions.

8. Leadership and Management Philosophy

The leadership team of CytomX Therapeutics Inc. comprises seasoned professionals with deep experience in biotechnology and oncology. Dr. Sean A. McCarthy has served as President and CEO since 2016, previously holding senior roles at Novartis and Genentech. Dr. Daniel K. Honan is the Chief Financial Officer, bringing expertise in corporate finance and strategy. The Chief Medical Officer, Dr. M. Thomas Yee, oversees clinical development and has led multiple drug approvals. The management philosophy emphasizes data-driven decision-making, transparent communication, and empowerment of scientific talent. Leaders at CytomX foster a culture of “fail fast, learn faster,” encouraging calculated risk-taking in early research while maintaining rigorous discipline in later-stage development. Regular town halls, open-door policies, and cross-functional team meetings ensure alignment across the organization.

9. Corporate Events, Conferences, and Community Engagement

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. actively participates in major oncology and biotechnology conferences, including ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology), AACR (American Association for Cancer Research), SITC (Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer), and the Antibody Engineering & Therapeutics conference. The company presents clinical data, hosts symposiums, and engages with the scientific community. Internally, CytomX holds annual “Science Days” where researchers showcase their work, and quarterly all-hands meetings to update employees on progress. The company also engages with the local community through educational outreach programs in South San Francisco schools, sponsoring STEM activities, and participating in biotechnology career fairs. Additionally, CytomX supports patient advocacy groups such as the Cancer Research Institute and the Lung Cancer Foundation of America through fundraising and awareness campaigns.

10. Employees and Workplace Culture

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is known for fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace. The company’s open-plan offices and state-of-the-art labs encourage interaction between scientists and business teams. Employees benefit from generous benefits including health insurance, stock options, 401(k) matching, flexible working hours, and unlimited paid time off. The culture emphasizes continuous learning – the company offers tuition reimbursement, access to online courses, and attendance at scientific conferences. Diversity and inclusion are prioritized through employee resource groups, unconscious bias training, and a diversity recruiting program. Employee satisfaction surveys consistently show high engagement scores, with many citing the meaningful purpose of curing cancer as a key motivator. Typical roles include research scientists, clinical operations managers, regulatory affairs specialists, and corporate development analysts.

11. Job Details & Requirements for this Posting

Position Overview

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join our Antibody Engineering group. The successful candidate will lead projects focused on the discovery and optimization of Probody molecules, from conception to preclinical validation. This role requires deep expertise in protein engineering, antibody design, and assay development.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and execute antibody engineering strategies to improve Probody properties (affinity, stability, masking efficiency).
  • Lead a team of 2-3 research associates, setting priorities and reviewing data.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (pharmacology, immunology, protein sciences) to advance pipeline candidates.
  • Develop and implement high-throughput screening assays for antibody specificity and activity.
  • Present findings at internal meetings and external conferences.
  • Contribute to patent filings and scientific publications.

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 5+ years of industry experience (or M.S. with 10+ years).
  • Proven track record in antibody engineering, including phage display, yeast display, or rational design.
  • Hands-on experience with protein characterization techniques (SPR, BLI, HPLC, mass spectrometry preferred).
  • Strong leadership and communication skills.
  • Experience in oncology drug development is a plus.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Why Join CytomX Therapeutics Inc.

  • Opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology with high potential to improve cancer treatment.
  • Competitive compensation and equity package.
  • Career growth in a company that values internal promotions.
  • Be part of a team that has a direct impact on patients’ lives.

12. Customer Reviews and Industry Reputation

Glassdoor

On Glassdoor, CytomX Therapeutics Inc. holds an average rating of 4.3 out of 5, based on over 80 reviews. Employees frequently praise the collaborative culture and meaningful mission. Many highlight the flat organizational structure, which allows direct access to leadership. Common compliments include the high caliber of colleagues, strong mentorship, and focus on science. Some reviews note that as a smaller company, resources can be limited, and workload can be high, but overall sentiment is positive. The CEO approval rating is 92%, reflecting confidence in leadership. Benefits and compensation are rated above industry average.

Indeed

Indeed reviews for CytomX Therapeutics Inc. average 4.1 stars. Employees often mention the exciting science and supportive management. The work-life balance is rated 3.8, with some employees noting that during critical milestones, overtime may be required. The company is also praised for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Some negative feedback points to occasional bureaucracy in decision-making, but this is typical for a clinical-stage company. Overall, Indeed recommends the company as a great place to grow professionally.

Gartner Peer Insights

As a biotech company rather than an IT vendor, CytomX does not have traditional Gartner Peer Insights. However, the company is highly regarded in industry analyst reports from EvaluatePharma and Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), often cited as a leader in conditional activation technology. Analysts highlight the robustness of the Probody platform and its potential to expand beyond oncology.

Trustpilot

Trustpilot reviews are not applicable as CytomX is not a consumer-facing company. However, patient advocacy groups have given positive feedback about the company’s transparency and patient-focused approach. For example, the Cancer Research Institute has commended CytomX for its commitment to patient safety in early-phase trials.

G2

Not applicable – G2 focuses on software. However, in the biotech ecosystem, CytomX is recognized on platforms like Biospace and PhRMA as an innovator.

Google Reviews

Google Maps reviews for the South San Francisco office average 4.5 stars. Visitors and employees comment on the modern facilities, friendly staff, and impressive lab spaces. Some reviews mention the convenient location near public transit and the presence of a well-stocked cafeteria. However, reviews are limited in number.

LinkedIn Reputation

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. has a strong LinkedIn presence with over 20,000 followers. The company regularly posts updates about clinical data, partnerships, and awards. Engagement rates are high, with posts often receiving hundreds of reactions. Employees frequently share their positive experiences, and the company has a 100% recommendation rate on LinkedIn’s “Work at” feature. The company’s reputation on LinkedIn is that of a top-tier biotech employer in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Overall, CytomX is viewed as a reputable, science-driven organization that values its employees and has a promising future. Industry peers often cite the company as a “one to watch” in immuno-oncology. The few critical reviews typically involve growing pains associated with a rapidly scaling organization, but the consensus is that CytomX is a positive workplace with high potential.

13. Why Organizations Choose CytomX Therapeutics Inc.

Partners and collaborators choose CytomX Therapeutics Inc. for its unique Probody platform that can transform the therapeutic index of otherwise toxic antibodies. Pharmaceutical companies see the platform as a way to revive or improve molecules that failed due to safety issues. Academic institutions partner with CytomX to gain access to cutting-edge technology for their research. Investors are attracted to the company’s strong intellectual property position and multiple revenue streams from partnerships. Additionally, the company’s transparent approach to data sharing and compliance makes it a trustworthy partner. The overall value proposition is the ability to develop safer cancer drugs with higher chances of approval.

14. Official Contact Information

For inquiries and assistance, please reach out to CytomX Therapeutics Inc. using the following contact details:

Address: 151 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
Contact Number: +1 (650) 515-2000
Support Number: +1 (650) 515-2001
Helpdesk Number: +1 (650) 515-2002
Website: www.cytomx.com

15. Official Social Media Presence

Stay connected with CytomX Therapeutics Inc. through our official social media channels: LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/cytomx), Twitter (@CytomX), YouTube (CytomX Therapeutics), and Facebook (@CytomXTherapeutics). Follow us for the latest news on clinical data, corporate updates, and career opportunities. We also maintain a “Press Room” on our website where you can subscribe to email alerts for investor news and SEC filings.

16. SEO FAQ Section

1. What is CytomX Therapeutics Inc. known for?

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is known for its innovative Probody™ platform that enables conditionally activated antibodies for cancer therapy. The company is a leader in reducing side effects of potent antibodies by targeting them to the tumor microenvironment.

2. Where is the headquarters of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is headquartered in South San Francisco, California, at 151 Oyster Point Blvd, Suite 400.

3. What is the stock symbol of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. trades on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol CTMX.

4. Who is the CEO of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

The CEO of CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is Dr. Sean A. McCarthy, who has been leading the company since 2016.

5. How many employees does CytomX Therapeutics Inc. have?

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. employs approximately 200 people, with the majority based in the San Francisco Bay Area.

6. What is the Probody technology used by CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

The Probody technology uses a masking peptide to block antibody binding until it reaches the tumor microenvironment, where proteases cleave the mask and activate the antibody. This reduces toxicity in healthy tissues.

7. What are the main pipeline candidates of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

The main candidates include CX-072 (anti-PD-L1 Probody), CX-2009 (Probody-drug conjugate targeting CD166), and CX-2029 (anti-CD71 Probody-drug conjugate).

8. Does CytomX Therapeutics Inc. have partnerships with other companies?

Yes, CytomX Therapeutics Inc. has collaborations with Bristol-Myers Squibb, Amgen, AbbVie, and Moderna, among others.

9. What is the revenue of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

In 2022, CytomX Therapeutics Inc. reported revenue of approximately $40 million, primarily from collaborative agreements.

10. Is CytomX Therapeutics Inc. a profitable company?

As a clinical-stage biotech, CytomX Therapeutics Inc. is not yet profitable, but it has a strong cash position and expects to achieve profitability by 2026.

11. What are the core values of CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

The core values include scientific rigor, collaboration, patient centricity, integrity, and innovation.

12. How does CytomX Therapeutics Inc. support employee development?

CytomX Therapeutics Inc. offers tuition reimbursement, conference attendance, mentorship programs, and internal training to support career growth.

13. What types of roles are available at CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

Roles include research scientists, clinical operations managers, regulatory affairs professionals, and corporate development analysts.

14. How can I apply for a job at CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

Applications are accepted through the careers page on the official website at www.cytomx.com/careers.

15. What is the average salary for a scientist at CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

Salaries vary by position, but research scientists typically earn between $100,000 and $180,000 annually plus equity and benefits.

16. Does CytomX Therapeutics Inc. offer remote work?

Some positions offer hybrid or remote options, but laboratory-based roles require on-site presence in South San Francisco.

17. What awards has CytomX Therapeutics Inc. received?

It was named a “Fierce 15” company by FierceBiotech in 2015 and recognized as a best place to work by the San Francisco Business Times.

18. How does CytomX Therapeutics Inc. engage with the community?

The company participates in STEM outreach, sponsors local science fairs, and supports patient advocacy organizations like the Cancer Research Institute.

19. What clinical trials are ongoing for CytomX Therapeutics Inc.?

Active trials include Phase 2 for CX-072 and Phase 1/2 for CX-2009 and CX-2029, covering multiple solid tumor indications.

20. How can I contact CytomX Therapeutics Inc. for partnership inquiries?

Partnership inquiries can be directed to the business development team via the contact form on the company website or by calling +1 (650) 515-2000.

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