Research Assistant Professor (Career-Track)

The University of Arizona•Tucson, AZ

5d•Onsite

About The Position

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. This career-track appointment is not eligible for tenure. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Requirements

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.
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.

Nice To Haves

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.

Responsibilities

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.
Conduct and oversee preclinical in vivo studies in relevant animal models to assess efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and safety of antifungal candidates.
Investigate fungal replication, pathogenesis, and host-fungi interactions to inform rational drug design and optimization of antifungal therapeutics.
Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including medicinal chemists, structural biologists, and clinicians to advance antiviral projects from discovery to preclinical development.
Prepare manuscripts, grant reports, and presentations to disseminate research findings and support funding and regulatory requirements.