Keith Akama

Keith Akama has a diverse work experience in the field of biopharmaceuticals, with expertise in protein engineering, antibody discovery, and cell signaling.

Keith is currently working as a Principal Scientist at Lycia Therapeutics since 2023.

Prior to this, Keith held the role of Principal Scientist at NGM Biopharmaceuticals from 2019 to 2023. In this role, they focused on protein engineering and expressed various antibodies at different scales for assay validation and candidate assessment. Keith also had extensive experience in protein production and expression optimization using mammalian systems.

Before NGM Biopharmaceuticals, Keith worked as a Scientist II at Compugen Ltd. from 2018 to 2019, where they contributed to research and development activities. Keith also worked at Compugen USA as a Scientist II, responsible for coordinating research products and leading antibody engineering efforts.

Keith started their career at Tunitas Therapeutics as a Scientist, specializing in cell signaling, molecular biology, and protein engineering. During this time, they identified signaling pathways and engineered antibody-based therapeutic candidates. Keith also characterized inhibitory signaling through cell-based assays.

Keith's early work experience includes positions at The Rockefeller University as a Neuroscience Research Associate on Aging, where they focused on molecular neurobiology and neuroendocrinology. Keith also worked as a Postdoctoral Associate, studying neuroendocrine signaling pathways and estrogen-dependent signaling.

Keith began their career as a Research Technician at the Chicago Institute for Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch, where they conducted oncology biomarker screening and RNA extraction from brain tumor biopsy samples.

Overall, Keith Akama has a strong background in protein engineering, antibody discovery, and cell signaling, with extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Keith Akama has a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Biology from Caltech. Keith also holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Neurobiology from Northwestern University - The Feinberg School of Medicine. No specific start or end years have been provided for either of these education experiences.