Research Assistant Professor (Career-Track)

The Research Assistant Professor in Virology will develop antifungals against fungal pathogens such as Cryptococcus
neoformans, Candida auris, C. albicans, Coccidioides immitus, and Aspergillus fumigatus. The role involves designing and
executing assays to identify and validate antifungal candidates and integrating mycology with drug discovery to advance
preclinical therapeutics.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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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

• Ph.D. in Virology, Mycology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related biomedical field, with at least 5 years of relevant research experience in antifungal drug discovery or molecular mycology.
• Demonstrated expertise in in vitro mycology assays and experience with in vivo animal models for infectious diseases are required.
• A strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and experience working in multidisciplinary research teams is expected.

• Prior experience in antifungal drug discovery and development.
• Experience working with high-containment fungi and in BSL-3 laboratory settings.
• Prior experience in antiviral development against fungal pathogens and familiarity with BSL-2/BSL-3 laboratory practices is highly desirable.