Scientist II - Virologist

About the role

CFD Research is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our Biotechnology and Life Sciences team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in advancing viral infection systems and in vitro models to better understand host–pathogen interactions and support antiviral development.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments for developing/optimizing viral infection models
• Perform virus production, titration, and quality control, including functional validation of viral stocks using standard quantitative methods
• Maintain and culture a variety of mammalian cell lines; perform transduction, transfection, infection assays, and stable cell line generation
• Develop and optimize in vitro infection models and cell-based assays to characterize viral replication, antiviral potency, tropism, and host-pathogen interactions
• Execute molecular biology workflows including PCR, cloning, sequencing verification, Western blotting, ELISA, and fluorescence-based assays
• Contribute to antiviral screening and functional assay development as needed
• Maintain BSL-2 compliant laboratory practices; follow all biosafety protocols and contribute to a strong lab safety culture
• Document experimental work thoroughly; contribute to internal technical reports, SOPs, and scientific publications

Qualifications

• Candidate must be a US Citizen and meet eligibility to obtain (and maintain) a Secret Clearance
• MS in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, or a closely related field
• 5+ years of experience in developing viral infection models
• Hands-on experience working with mammalian viral systems (VEEV, LASV, influenza, coronaviruses, or similar)
• Proficiency in mammalian cell culture, including sterile technique, passaging, transfection, and infection assays
• Experience with virus production and titration (e.g., plaque assays, TCID50, qPCR-based titration, or ELISA)
• Solid foundation in core molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, sequencing, Western blot, ELISA)
• Strong attention to detail, laboratory organization, and commitment to rigorous data documentation
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a small, fast-paced team

Preferred Experience

• With BSL-2 or BSL-3 containment and associated biosafety training
• Experience with animal models of viral infection
• Background in host-pathogen interaction studies or innate immune response characterization
• Hands-on experience with pathogen infection in complex in vitro models
• Demonstrated success in grant or proposal writing

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and excellent employee benefits
• Employer matching 401(k) and Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Hospitality insurance package, including medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Compensation time, parental leave, long-term and short-term disability, accidental death and dismemberment, and life insurance
• Group and individual bonuses for exceptional performance