STKs (serine/threonine-protein kinases) catalyse the transfer of the gamma-phosphoryl group from ATP to serine/threonine residues on protein substrates. Nek9, also called Nercc1, is primarily a cytoplasmic protein but can also localize in the nucleus. It is involved in modulating chromosome alignment and splitting during mitosis. It interacts with the gamma-tubulin ring complex and the Ran GTPase, and is implicated in microtubule organization []. Nek9 associates with FACT (FAcilitates Chromatin Transcription) and modulates interphase progression []. It also interacts with Nek6, and Nek7, during mitosis, resulting in their activation. Nek9 is one in a family of 11 different Neks (Nek1-11) that are involved in cell cycle control [, ].