Raffi Tonikian

Raffi Tonikian is an accomplished professional in the field of molecular genetics and oncology, currently serving as the Director of Translational Biomarkers at AbCellera since September 2021. Previously, Raffi held various leadership positions at Merck from August 2016 to September 2021, including Oncology Director and Global Director of Medical Affairs for Biomarkers and Companion Diagnostics. Raffi's earlier experience includes roles such as Medical Advisor in Neuroscience and Medical Science Liaison at Novartis, along with a position as Scientist I at Biogen Idec. The academic background features a PhD in Molecular Genetics from the University of Toronto, complemented by a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biochemistry from Concordia University. Raffi's research contributions include the development of novel antibody scaffolds for cancer biomarker detection and the isolation of synthetic antibodies targeting cancer-related antigens.