Antifungal Discovery and Screening:
- Design, develop, and execute in vitro assays to identify and characterize small-molecule and biologic antifungal candidates against emerging viruses, including Cryptococcus neoformans, Candida auris, C. albicans, Coccidioides immitus, and Aspergillus fumigatus.
In Vivo Evaluation of Antifungals:
- Conduct and oversee preclinical in vivo studies in relevant animal models to assess efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of antifungal candidates.
Mechanistic mycology Studies:
- Investigate fungal replication, pathogenesis, and host-fungi interactions to inform rational drug design and optimization of antifungal therapeutics.
Collaboration and Project Management:
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including medicinal chemists, structural biologists, and clinicians to advance antiviral projects from discovery to preclinical development.
Scientific Communication and Reporting:
- Prepare manuscripts, grant reports, and presentations to disseminate research findings and support funding and regulatory requirements.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Strong knowledge of mycology, fungal replication mechanisms, and host-fungus interactions.
- Skilled in designing and performing in vitro antifungal assays, cell culture techniques, and molecular biology methods.
- Skilled in conducting and interpreting in vivo animal studies for infectious diseases, including efficacy and PK/PD evaluation.
- Ability to analyze, interpret, and present complex scientific data clearly in written and oral formats.
- Demonstrated skills in experimental design, troubleshooting, and independent problem-solving.
- Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple projects effectively.
- Knowledge and familiarity with biosafety regulations and experience working in BSL-2/BSL-3 laboratory environments