The Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology at the University of California, Berkeley seeks applications for an Assistant/Associate Project Scientist in the laboratory of Professor Anders Naar, in the area of antisense oligonucleotide drug development. One of the primary objectives of the Naar lab is the development of antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drugs to treat viral diseases. We aim to develop highly effective therapeutics targeting potential pandemic viral infections by designing and optimizing ASO sequences and modifications, conducting rigorous in vitro screenings, and assessing efficacy in relevant animal models. Our focus extends to investigating the mechanisms of cell uptake, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of these ASOs.

The candidate's work will focus on the design and execution of both cell-based and animal-based studies. The cell-based studies will encompass the establishment of cell-based models, viral titer assays (e.g., plaque formation assay), celltiter glo assays, and other assays for anti-viral antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) drug screening and evaluation. Animal-based studies will involve managing mouse strains, establishing mouse models related to COVID-19 and influenza infection, testing ASO drug candidates in these mouse models via multiple administration routes (IP, IV, SubQ, and IN), conducting bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis, and whole-body plethysmography (WBP) to comprehensively evaluate lung function with ASO treatment, collecting tissues for molecular assays/analysis, and staining tissues for histological analysis. Additionally, the candidate will conduct studies employing various next-generation sequencing techniques (ChIP-seq, ATAC-seq, RNA-seq, etc.) to further evaluate the antiviral efficacy of ASO drugs for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19 and influenza infections and explore potential modification strategies to improve the effectiveness of ASO drugs.

PhD or equivalent international degree.

• Strong interest and experience in virology, genetics, or physiology.
• Experience in handling genetically engineered lab mice within Biosafety Level 1, 2, and 3 facilities
• Proficiency in next-generation sequencing-based techniques and high-throughput screening methods such as large-scale drug screening and genome-wide CRISPR screening.
• Attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively with team members
• Experience with animal models, viral vector systems, bioinformatics tools
• Track record of publications in top scientific journals.

• 2 required (contact information only)

UC Berkeley is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. The excellence of the institution requires an environment in which the diverse community of faculty, students, and staff are welcome and included. Successful candidates will demonstrate knowledge and skill related to ensuring equity and inclusion in the activities of their academic position (e.g., teaching, research, and service, as applicable).

The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Please refer to the University of California's Affirmative Action Policy and the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy.

In searches when letters of reference are required all letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. Please refer potential referees, including when letters are provided via a third party (i.e., dossier service or career center), to the UC Berkeley statement of confidentiality prior to submitting their letter.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.