Therapeutics Small Molecule Antivirals SME

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Therapeutics Small Molecule Antivirals SME

A Subject Matter Expert (SME) in early-stage therapeutic development primarily focused on small molecule antivirals is needed to provide contracted support to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in Washington, DC. The mission of BARDA is to develop and procure medical countermeasures (MCM) that address the public health and medical consequences of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) accidents, incidents and attacks, pandemic influenza, and emerging infectious diseases. Specifically, BARDA supports the advanced development and procurement of drugs, vaccines and other products that are considered priorities for national health security. For more information on BARDA please visit their website at:

Specifically, this individual will provide scientific and technical expertise to support BARDA's early-stage therapeutics development efforts primarily focused on small molecule antivirals. The SME will advise BARDA program staff on discovery, preclinical, and translational research activities aimed at identifying and advancing novel candidates for viral pathogens of pandemic or biothreat concern. The SME will leverage deep domain knowledge in medicinal chemistry, antiviral mechanism of action studies, lead optimization, and preclinical model development to evaluate new technologies, identify development risks, and recommend strategies for progression toward clinical studies.

Major Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide expert guidance on early discovery and optimization of small molecule antiviral agents, including medicinal chemistry strategies, structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis, and mechanism of action studies.
• Evaluate preclinical data packages, including in vitro antiviral activity, resistance profiles, PK/PD data, and toxicology assessments.
• Support assessment of antiviral leads against high-priority pathogens
• Review and assess new technologies or approaches for potential BARDA investment.
• Advise BARDA Program team on project design, go/no-go criteria, and technical milestones for early-stage therapeutic programs.
• Review technical proposals, white papers, and other submissions to assess feasibility, innovation, and scientific rigor.
• Review study protocols, study reports, regulatory documents, presentations, proposals, and related documents.
• Advise on assay development, target validation, and animal model utilization for antiviral evaluation.
• Evaluate and recommend candidate therapeutics for BARDA support, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and pandemic preparedness goals.
• Maintain awareness of antiviral R&D trends, and emerging technologies
• Prepare scientific assessments, meeting summaries, and technical recommendations for BARDA leadership.

Requirements:

• A Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in Medicinal Chemistry, Virology, Pharmacology, or related biomedical sciences,
• At least 10-15 years applicable experience in antiviral small molecule discovery and preclinical development (industry or academia)
• Demonstrated experience in hit-to-lead optimization, mechanism of action elucidation, and preclinical assay development.
• In-depth understanding of antiviral pharmacology, viral replication pathways, and resistance mechanisms.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to evaluate complex data sets from diverse sources.
• Demonstrated experience with preclinical development, IND-enabling studies, and regulatory documentation preferred.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex technical information for both expert and non-expert audiences.

Tunnell strives to hire and retain the most qualified talent. We believe that having employees with different backgrounds and capabilities contributes to the success of our business. To attract qualified applicants, Tunnell posts to a wide variety of job sites. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Please be advised that certain client contracts may outline specific requirements for onsite work. Tunnell employees and/or contractors are expected to comply with all client requirements, including any safety and health protocols.