Staff Scientist Chanda Lab (AVIDD)

The Chanda Lab at Scripps-Calibr is seeking a highly motivated individual to drive antiviral drug discovery programs. This position will work within a team of interdisciplinary scientists and play a key role in our AVIDD pandemic preparedness program (www.campp.org). Under limited supervision, the ideal candidate will exercise initiative in identifying problems, taking corrective actions, and carrying out work assignments independently.

Responsibilities

· Initiate and execute laboratory research in a timely manner, and develop and execute strategies to discover innovative antivirals and targets (SARS-CoV-2, DENV, ZIKV, EBOV, IAV, and other viruses with pandemic potential)

· Drive preclinical drug discovery programs for novel antivirals & characterize MOAs

· Maintain broad knowledge of virology and large-scale technologies (proteomics/chemoproteomics, chemical biology, NextGen Sequencing, etc.)

· Adhere to the safety regulations to handle BSL2- and BSL3-level viruses, human primary cells, and cell lines

· Preparation of reports and presentation of research results at regular team meetings

· Make contributions to scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and publication at conferences

Qualifications

· Ph.D. degree in biological science, biochemistry, microbiology, or related field

· Minimum 3+ years laboratory experience

· Strong background in virology and immunology, especially innate immunity is required

· Experience in working with viruses: stock generation, determining infectious titers, setting up in vitro antiviral assays are required

· Experience with cell-based and biochemical assays using methods such as high-content imaging, luminescence, fluorescence and absorbance are preferred

· Excellent oral and written communications skills

· Demonstrated productivity with a strong publication record in high-quality journals

· Ability to work in a highly dynamic environment with excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently