Senior Research Specialist, Antifungal Drug Development

				Overview:

The laboratory of Dr. Milena Kordalewska is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Research Specialist, Antifungal Drug Development to take a leading experimental role in our translational research programs focused on the development of novel antifungal drugs. Our lab is at the forefront of investigating emerging and drug-resistant fungal pathogens, and this senior position offers a unique opportunity to significantly contribute to a collaborative, mission-driven team. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving preclinical drug discovery initiatives, with the ultimate goal of addressing a significant global health threat and improving patient outcomes.

Key responsibilities will include:

* Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments that are foundational to our drug development pipeline.
* Lead the implementation of comprehensive in vitro evaluations to determine the potency and spectrum of activity of novel antifungal compounds.
* Develop and optimize a variety of molecular biology assays to elucidate mechanisms of drug action and resistance.
* Optimize and execute in vivo drug efficacy models in rodents to assess the therapeutic potential of lead candidates.

We are seeking a candidate with substantial experience in microbiology, pharmacology, or a related field, coupled with a proven track record in translational research. The following lab experience and skills are highly desirable:

* Extensive hands-on expertise in cultures of microbial pathogens, particularly yeasts and filamentous fungi.
* Demonstrated proficiency in a wide range of drug susceptibility testing methodologies.
* Proven experience with in vitro and in vivo biofilm models.
* Strong background in molecular biology techniques, e.g., PCR, nucleic acid isolation.
* Experience with animal models of infectious diseases, including drug administration, tissue collection, and data analysis.

The Center for Discovery and Innovation- CDI was established by Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) as an academic basic and translational research enterprise to rapidly translate science innovation to the clinic and to improve outcomes for patients with cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disease and other acute and chronic diseases.  The CDI has grown rapidly since its origins in 2019, and now has 39 labs, 200+ scientists and allied personnel supported by 78 NIH and DoD grants and more than 87 other grants and contracts. Areas of expertise include genomics, epigenetics, drug resistance, stem cell biology, drug discovery, diagnostics and biomarker development, rheumatology and pharmacology.

Responsibilities:

A day in the life of a   Senior Research Specialist, Antifungal Drug Development , Center for Discovery & Innovation at Hackensack Meridian Health includes:

* Independently designs and performs experiments, within an assigned project and reviews progress, evaluates results, and develops conclusions. 
* Contributes to determining feasibility of goals and objectives. 
* Assures quality, cost effectiveness, and timeliness of assigned projects. 
* Participates in formulating research methods and suggesting options for improving quality and recommending solutions.
* Identifies problems and related technical issues and makes recommendations leading to long-term solutions. 
* Performs data collection, screening and verifying data. 
* Analyzes experimental results and interprets and implements research methodology based on outcome of analyses.
* Manages specialized research laboratory functions. 
* Collaborates with other departments to answer questions or provides advice on research projects and Experiments.
* Organizes and maintains lab space. 
* Maintains detailed protocols and records of data related to executed laboratory work. 
* Assists in managing general laboratory functions. 
* Trains new personnel and investigators working in the laboratory relating to methods listed above.
* Appropriate use of equipment necessary to perform these studies, purchase of supplies and reagents necessary for these studies. 
* Other duties and/or projects as assigned. 
* Adheres to HMH Organizational competencies and standards of behavior.

Qualifications:

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required: 

* Bachelor's diploma/degree in lab specific field or other relevant area of study. 
* Minimum of 4 or more years of experience. 
* Meticulous record keeping to ensure integrity of the data. 
* Must be able to work independently and have a strong work ethic. 
* Lab specific technical skills.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
* Proficient computer skills that include but are not limited to Microsoft Office and/or Google Suite platforms. 
* Must be flexible in work schedule. Must be available to occasionally come to the laboratory on a weekend day for a few hours or stay late in evenings for a given experiment. 

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Preferred: 

* Recent Ph.D. (within 2 years) or Master's degree. 
* Experience working in a BSL2/BSL3 lab facility. 
* Experience with small animal handling. 
* Previous experience in lab specific field.
* Other lab specific. 

If you feel that the above description speaks directly to your strengths and capabilities, then please apply today!
			

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Hackensack Meridian Health