Senior Research Specialist, Antifungal Drug Development

SENIOR RESEARCH SPECIALIST, ANTIFUNGAL DRUG DEVELOPMENT

SENIOR RESEARCH SPECIALIST, ANTIFUNGAL DRUG DEVELOPMENT role at JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute

Company: HMH Hospitals Corporation, Nutley, New Jersey

• Requisition #
• Shift: Day
• Status:
  Full Time with Benefits

The laboratory of Dr. Milena Kordalewska seeks an experienced and highly motivated Senior Research Specialist to lead experimental work in translational research focused on novel antifungal drugs. The role involves driving preclinical drug discovery initiatives to address drug-resistant fungal pathogens.

• Independently design, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments foundational to the drug development pipeline.
• Lead implementation of comprehensive in vitro evaluations for potency and spectrum of activity of novel compounds.
• Develop and optimize molecular biology assays to elucidate mechanisms of drug action and resistance.
• Optimize and execute in vivo rodent drug efficacy models to assess therapeutic potential of lead candidates.

• Extensive expertise in culturing microbial pathogens, especially yeasts and filamentous fungi.
• Proficiency in drug susceptibility testing methodologies.
• Experience with in vitro and in vivo biofilm models.
• Strong background in PCR, nucleic acid isolation, and related molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with animal models of infectious diseases, including drug administration, tissue collection, and data analysis.

The Center for Discovery and Innovation (CDI) is an academic research enterprise focused on translating science to the clinic to improve outcomes for patients with infectious diseases.

• Design and perform experiments, review progress, evaluate results, and develop conclusions.
• Determine feasibility of goals and objectives.
• Ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and timeliness of projects.
• Formulate research methods and recommend solutions.
• Identify and recommend solutions to technical problems.
• Collect, screen, verify, and analyze data.
• Interpret results and implement methodology.
• Manage specialized laboratory functions and collaborate with other departments.
• Maintain lab space and detailed protocols.
• Train new personnel and assist in general lab functions.
• Adhere to HMH standards of behavior.

• Required
  • Bachelor’s degree in a laboratory‑specific field or related area.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience.
  • Meticulous record keeping.
  • Ability to work independently with a strong work ethic.
  • Technical lab skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office/Google Suite.
  • Flexible schedule, including occasional weekends or evenings.
• Preferred
  • Recent Ph.D. (within 2 years) or Master’s degree.
  • Experience in BSL2/BSL3 labs.
  • Experience with small animal handling.
  • Additional lab‑specific experience.

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

Minimum rate of $49,857.60 annually. Base compensation may vary based on market, experience, and credentials.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, marital status, veteran status, or national origin.