Oncotect

Company Overview

**Executive Summary**

Oncotect is a Raleigh-based biotech startup committed to pioneering early screening of cancer risks in dogs using their urine. The company’s patent-pending in-vitro scientific test combines its proprietary technology to detect cancerous metabolites. Oncotect is the only urine-based non-invasive, convenient, affordable, and accessible multi-cancer screening test available for dogs.

**Detailed Description**

There are over 84 million dogs in the US alone, and the biggest threat to their health and well-being is cancer.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs, with 6 million annual diagnoses. That means 1 out of every 4 dogs will develop cancer in their lifetime. As any vet oncologist will tell you, the best chance of fighting cancer and extending our pets’ lives comes from early detection and diagnosis.

But that just isn’t a widely available option to date. Current testing methods such as Biopsies, Ultrasounds, and X-Rays are excellent at diagnosing cancer but are too expensive or impractical for early screening. And blood tests require a hospital visit to perform, and any pet parent will tell you that it’s not a pleasant experience for their dogs.

At Oncotect, we’re pioneering a game-changing solution that’s not only simple but practical for at-home use. We are introducing the world’s first non-invasive, at-home cancer screening test for dogs. By using urinalysis, we’ve created a process that’s fast, accurate, and affordable. This breakthrough empowers pet parents to take charge of their pets’ health, all from the comfort of their own homes.

Pet parents can take the test at select animal hospitals now or will soon be able to order a testing kit online. The urine collection process is quick and hassle-free, thanks to our user-friendly collection tools and clear instructions. Upon collecting a small urine sample, pet parents can send it to our lab, and we deliver accurate results to them within 7 business days. Our test result shows an easy-to-understand risk assessment, categorizing pets as low, moderate, or high risk. We also offer guidance for veterinarians and pet parents on the appropriate next steps. Throughout the entire process, we are dedicated to keeping veterinarians informed and involved. Additionally, we are in discussion with telemedicine companies to support pet parents who may not have access to local veterinary services.

The science behind our technology relies on these little guys: microscopic nematodes called c.elegans. These little creatures have an incredible sense of smell, with even more olfactory receptors than dogs despite their small size, so much so that they can actually detect cancerous metabolites when exposed to urine that contains them. Our novel, patent-pending process is able to quantify their olfactory neuronal response with high accuracy, which enables us to accurately assess the patient’s risk of cancer.

To date, we’ve tested over 400 patients, dogs of all shapes and sizes. And we’ve been proven to accurately detect the 4 most common canine cancers at 83% Sensitivity and 96% Specificity – these results compare favorably with competitive blood tests. But with no needles, our pet-friendly approach is a complete game changer.

We are offering our test in 2 ways. In B2B channel, we have partnered with 35 hospitals in a paid pilot program. The feedback has been incredible so far and one of our partnering vets, Dr. Wages, quoted “Oncotect definitely changed how I practice medicine. I wish everyone else would catch on.” Additionally, Just like 23andMe and Cologuard, we are also launching the DTC in September, making us the first and only company offering canine cancer screening tests directly to pet parents.

We launched Oncotect at the height of the pandemic in 2020, but it hasn’t slowed us down. We opened our fully functional lab and are now able to process many tests per day. Our R&D efforts have been focused on a microfluidics method, which is a commercially scalable platform, set to be completed and validated in Q3 of 2023. Our solution is patent pending, has been published in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science, and has been backed by some of the leading investors in the space.

Our leadership and advisory team consists of general practice veterinarians, veterinary oncologists, scientists, and entrepreneurs committed to pioneering early detection of cancer in companion animals from leading research universities.

There is no cure for cancer, but early detection and treatment make all the difference. Each day we spend with our pets is a gift, and we want to help pet parents everywhere get more of them to enjoy together.

We are at the start of a cancer screening revolution in companion animals. If you’d like to learn more about our company or join us in our mission, please reach out to us.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive eCommerce strategy that aligns with the brand’s overall business goals
• Drive revenue growth by analyzing and optimizing the customer journey, managing the conversion funnel, and implementing effective marketing tactics
• Collaborate with marketing team to develop effective campaigns, manage the email marketing program, and maintain social media presence
• Work with product development team to ensure website product offerings are optimized, well-merchandised, and are in line with brand guidelines
• Oversee the management of the eCommerce platform, including UX/UI, technical integrations, payment processing, and shipping logistics
• In partnership with Store Operations, manage customer service inquiries and ensure timely and effective resolution of customer issues
• Analyze data and develop reports on eCommerce KPIs to track progress and identify areas for improvement
• Stay up-to-date with emerging eCommerce trends, best practices and technology innovations, and ensure the brand remains competitive in the online marketplace
• Lead, coach and manage the eCommerce team to achieve business objectives, maintain high levels of engagement and ensure a positive team culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in eCommerce, preferably in a leadership role.
• Experience in the DTC brands.
• Strong understanding of eCommerce technology, platforms, and payment processing systems
• Knowledge of SEO, SEM, PPC, and other digital marketing tactics
• Strong analytical skills and experience with web analytics tools
• Experience managing a team and leading cross-functional projects
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously

Oncotect