When BMS acquired RayzeBio in 2024, our product pipeline expanded to include radiopharmaceutical therapies (RPTs), an innovative approach to cancer treatment that aims to deliver radioisotopes directly to cancer cells while seeking to spare healthy cells and minimizing side effects.
Having RPTs in our portfolio also expanded possibilities for professionals with experience in radiopharmaceuticals or small molecules to join RayzeBio’s fast-growing teams at its headquarters in San Diego and new manufacturing site in Indianapolis.
This opportunity to be part of our talented, high-achieving teams united by a common mission led Christopher (Chris) Nikodem, Senior Director, Engineering to relocate from the East Coast to Indianapolis. Learn about the career path that led him there, and how radiopharmaceuticals can open new career possibilities for people with diverse professional backgrounds.
From Military Service to the Forefront of Drug Development Technology
When he joined RayzeBio in August 2024, Chris brought a diverse range of experience that included five years in the Navy. “During our first deployment I found my interest in engineering and maintenance, and that's carried me through my career,” said Chris. His Navy service was followed by positions at several pharmaceutical companies, a combination he credits for leading him to his current role.
The chance to work at the cutting edge of science was a strong draw. “Radiopharmaceuticals are at the forefront of technology. That has really excited me to be here,” he added.
Chris also described a supportive environment for former service members looking to translate their military skills to civilian jobs, noting that “veteran recruiting for BMS is a priority. There is a veterans’ network here with mentorship programs to help you see where your skills align, and speak with someone that has lived through that process themselves.”
Discovering an Accelerated Path to Progress
Chris was surprised at the speed of progress at the Indianapolis site. “I worked for a few other large organizations where we had a lot more bureaucracy and decisions were made several levels up. Here, we’re able to have an impact on a lot of things at the plant and create impact at every level,” he said.
A Growth Opportunity for Diverse Disciplines
Chris emphasized the multidisciplinary nature of RayzeBio’s work as a key factor in its growth. “We have so many departments: radiochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, all forms of engineering. We’re always looking for people who are experienced in the FDA or CFR part 11. These are all very valuable skills to help us get to commercialization,” he explained.
He believes that the company’s success is driven by the diverse skills and backgrounds of its employees. “Each day brings a new challenge, and we’re always looking for good people to help us overcome those challenges.”
Building a Bright Future for Transforming Patients’ Lives
Chris sees a bright future ahead for RayzeBio and the radiopharmaceuticals industry. He described the field as “the true next wave of technology.” There is a lot of investment in radiopharma overall, and that’s going to create a lot of good opportunities. RayzeBio aims to be the number one radiopharmaceutical company in the world, and Chris is committed to helping achieve that goal.
