Section Head, Comparative Medicine - Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine

01/10/2025

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The Department of Pathology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine (WFUSM) is seeking a dynamic, innovative and energetic leader to become the Head of the Section of Comparative Medicine. Candidates must have a record of excellence in research and experience with nonhuman primate models.

A successful Section Head of Comparative Medicine will develop strategies to continue advancing and growing Comparative Medicine’s research programs, further leverage collaborations with research faculty and leaders across WFUSM Departments and Centers, promote an atmosphere where team-science is valued and augmented by skills and resources across a large and diverse research enterprise, and support career development of faculty and fellows in the section. The next Head must demonstrate the ability to effectively steward department and section resources, exhibit an entrepreneurial spirit, and partner with the Department Chair to transform the section through a time of great change in academics. 

The Section Head will lead a growing multidisciplinary team of thirteen PhD, DVM, and DVM/DACVP scientists who are uniquely skilled in translational research using nonhuman primates. Areas of research strength include aging, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, behavioral neurobiology, radiation effects, cancer, and pediatric/developmental programming. Comparative Medicine faculty serve as the center for nonhuman primate model expertise and provide research services to other investigators. The Section is also home to two NIH-funded national resource nonhuman primate (NHP) colonies (the Vervet Research Colony consisting of over 300 genotyped and pedigreed vervet monkeys, and the NIAID Radiation Late Effects Cohort, consisting of over 150 rhesus monkeys previously exposed to radiation) with a total population of approximately 500 NHPs. Additional onsite resources available to faculty include 1) imaging capabilities for large animals (CT/DEXA) with expansion underway to include PET/CT,  and 2) MRIa linear accelerator onsite in 2025 currently available at a separate campus); 3) a ~2600 sq ft ABSL-3 facility; 4) Comparative Medicine Veterinary Pathology Core;  and 5) the Preclinical Translational Research Services Core. These primate resources provide abundant research opportunities and serve as magnets for collaborative work. 

Comparative Medicine faculty and resources are mainly located on the 200-acre Thomas B Clarkson Campus where School of Medicine researchers have conducted research for nearly 60 years using a variety of animal models, with the majority of research in nonhuman primates. The Campus also has a large community outreach program that has brought more than 4,000 visitors (mostly students) to our facility to learn more about biomedical research careers and the importance of research in improving human health. The Department also administers several shared research facilities, which are available to investigators throughout the institution. These facilities include Cellular Imaging, Digital Pathology Core, and Comparative Pathology Laboratory.

Leading the way as an Academic Learning Health System, Wake Forest University School of Medicine (WFUSM) provides internationally recognized leadership in the translation of basic to clinical science. Institutional centers involved in collaborative research efforts include the Sticht Center for Healthy Aging and Alzheimer’s Prevention, the Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute (CTSI), the Cardiovascular Sciences Center, the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, the Wake Forest University Comprehensive Cancer Center, the Center for Precision Medicine, and the Translational Imaging Program. Two NIH-funded training grants within the Section support research training for veterinary postdoctoral fellows (T32) and student summer fellows (T35).  A few of the many CTSI programs designed to support new research faculty include a Translational Research Academy, K Award Writer Series, Research Studios, and the opportunity to apply for a 2-year KL2 Career Development Award. The broader WFUSM community consists of over 1000 faculty spanning over 40 academic departments and over 25 academic Centers or Institutes.

Skills and Competencies Required

• Terminal degree (i.e., DVM, PhD, DO, PharmD, MD)
• Experience in nonhuman primate models
• Academic stature as an established principal investigator
• Current rank of Associate Professor or higher
• Record of extramural grant funding and scholarly productivity
• An outstanding track record of academic accomplishment in administrative, scholarly, and educational endeavors
• Ability to build purposeful research programs to recruit and develop research faculty
• Established excellence in mentoring and experience teaching and mentoring graduate students/postdoctoral fellows
• Transparent and a collaborative management style
• Business skills including budgeting and resource management
• Track record of careful stewardship of institutional resources, decisiveness and ability to make difficult decisions
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an academic and clinical culture that advances health equity and promotes a just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment for all.
• The ability to create and articulate an inspiring vision for the section
• An entrepreneurial and creative approach to developing new, innovative ideas that will stretch the organization and push the boundaries within the industry
• The ability to attract and recruit top talent, motivate the team, delegate effectively, celebrate diversity within the team, and manage performance; and be widely viewed as a strong developer of others

Offline enquiries can also be directed to me at [email protected]

Open Rank Faculty/Scientist in Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities with Emphasis on Minority Aging and Women's Health

12/18/2024
This position is part of the Health Equity Cluster in the Connecting the Community of Tufts Scholars (CCTS) program, jointly funded by the participating school(s) and the Office of the Provost/Senior Vice President. Faculty hired into this cluster will foster collaborative and interdisciplinary research, scholarship, teaching, and community engagement efforts centering on health outcomes for racially and/or ethnically marginalized groups, both locally and globally. CCTS cohorts will receive mentoring to advance innovative approaches and interventions to the ways they address health disparities and various other factors that impact health, such as structural drivers (e.g., economic, environmental), community context, healthcare, and other social determinants. Additionally, they will partake in robust professional development opportunities, which connect faculty to various resources and support structures at Tufts University.

About the Position

The Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University seeks an outstanding researcher at any academic rank (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor) to join our interdisciplinary team. The focus of this position is addressing the health of racially and ethnically marginalized older age groups, with an emphasis on women's health.

We welcome applications from scholars whose work aligns with these themes, particularly those exploring minority aging-related issues. Researchers with interests in the intersectionality of race, gender, and health, precision medicine, and/or artificial intelligence (AI) are encouraged to apply. Candidates from diverse academic backgrounds are invited to shape their research focus within the broader goals of improving health equity and health outcomes across diverse populations.

Potential Areas of Research

The position offers the flexibility to define your research priorities, though we are particularly interested in applicants exploring any of the following:

• Advancing research on health disparities affecting racially and ethnically marginalized populations, particularly in the context of aging, chronic disease, and health span.
• Investigating women's health inequities in diverse populations, including how these inequities intersect with race, ethnicity, and other social determinants of health.
• Applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze large datasets and develop predictive models for tailored interventions to address health disparities and minority aging.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams at Tufts to generate impactful solutions to health disparities through innovative methodologies.

Qualifications

• For Assistant Professor: A Ph.D. or equivalent in a relevant field (e.g., biology, gerontology, epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, sociology, nutrition science, computer science) with strong potential to develop an independent research program and secure extramural funding.
• For Associate or Full Professor: An established record of funded research, scholarly achievement, and mentorship in areas relevant to this position.
• Commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in research, teaching, and service.

About the HNRCA

The Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (HNRCA) at Tufts University is one of six human nutrition research centers in the United States supported by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS). Located on the Tufts Health Sciences campus in downtown Boston, the HNRCA provides a robust research environment encompassing cellular and molecular studies, human metabolic research, and epidemiological studies.

The HNRCA offers extensive resources, including:

• A 25,000-square-foot human nutrition metabolic research unit.
• An AAALAC-accredited animal facility.
• Clinical chemistry, mass spectrometry, biostatistics, and data management cores.
• Pre- and post-award research support.

The Center is dedicated to promoting healthy aging through nutrition science, focusing on diet and physical activity. Learn more at hnrca.tufts.edu.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit the following:

• A cover letter.
• Curriculum vitae.
• A statement of current and future research interests.
• Contact information for three references.

Materials may be submitted via Interfolio at http://apply.interfolio.com/160747 or via email to [email protected]. Questions can be directed to Eleanor Davison at [email protected].

Members of underrepresented minority groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

Tufts University is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its faculty, staff, and students.

The Department of Nutrition at University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill

Job Title: Research Technician
Company: Ora Biomedical, Inc.
Location: Tukwila, WA
Job Type: Full-time & part-time roles available

About Ora Biomedical, Inc.:
Ora Biomedical, Inc. is a longevity biotechnology company dedicated to revolutionizing healthy lifespan
by targeting aging. Located in South Seattle, we use robotics and AI to perform large-scale, high-
throughput longevity drug discovery and development. We are passionate, hard-working biomedical
researchers and are looking for a motivated Research Technician to join our dynamic team as we
discover revolutionary longevity interventions that broadly fight chronic illness and maximize healthy
life.

Position Overview:
As a Research Technician at Ora Biomedical, Inc., you will play a crucial role in supporting our research
projects. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with a passion for science and a
desire to work in a collaborative, fast-paced, and innovative environment. We are excited to identify
individuals interested in long-term positions with the strongest possibility of promotion and career
advancement. Help us grow the largest, highest quality, and most rigorous longevity interventions
database that has ever existed!

Key Responsibilities:

•  Assist in the planning, execution, and analysis of experiments under the guidance of the Director of Invertebrate Research.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper functioning.
• Prepare and sterilize laboratory materials and reagents.
• Collect and record data accurately, maintaining detailed record collection.
• Participate in the development and optimization of experimental protocols.
• Collaborate with research team members to achieve project goals.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and laboratory protocols.
• Assist in the preparation of research reports and presentations.
• Stay updated on relevant scientific literature and advancements.

Required Qualifications:

• Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to safety procedures and ethical conduct in research.
• Enthusiasm for scientific research and a desire to learn and grow.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with using C. elegans as a laboratory model.
• Previous experience with Linux based operating systems.
• Previous experience with scientific software, robotics, or other engineering projects.

Why Ora Biomedical?
Joining Ora Biomedical means becoming part of a pioneering company at the forefront of longevity
science. You will have the opportunity to work alongside scientists and business leaders dedicated to
discovering new ways to extend healthy human lifespan, while helping the company grow its impact in
the biotech industry. Our benefits include:

• Robust employee equity options (full-time only).
• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans (full-time only).
• Retirement savings plan (401k) (full-time only).
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Collaborative and innovative startup culture.
• Paid time off and holidays.

How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their
interest in the position to [email protected]. Please include "Research Technician
Application"; in the subject line of your email.

Ora Biomedical, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We are growing an inclusive community that
values and celebrates the rich diversity that is the Human experience. We encourage candidates from
diverse backgrounds to apply.

Join our team and help us change the World through longevity therapeutics!

Job Title: Software Engineer
Company: Ora Biomedical, Inc.
Location: Tukwila, WA (Hybrid Work Options Available)
Job Type: Full-time

About Ora Biomedical, Inc.:
Ora Biomedical, Inc. is a cutting-edge longevity biotechnology startup revolutionizing healthy lifespan
extension through advanced drug discovery. Located in South Seattle, we combine robotics, artificial
intelligence, and large-scale, high-throughput screening to identify groundbreaking longevity
therapeutics. Our team of passionate scientists and engineers is driven by the mission to fight chronic
disease and promote healthy aging through innovative interventions.

Position Overview:
We are seeking a highly motivated Software Engineer to join our interdisciplinary team. In this role, you
will be instrumental in developing and optimizing the software systems that power Ora Biomedical’s
longevity-focused drug discovery platform. This is a unique opportunity for a software engineer with a
strong interest in biotech to make a direct impact on the future of healthcare by contributing to the
discovery of life-extending therapies. If you thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment and are
passionate about applying technology to revolutionize healthspan, this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) to design, develop, and enhance software systems that accelerate our drug discovery and development processes.
• Lead and participate in all phases of the software development life cycle, including requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, deployment, and ongoing support.
• Write, test, and optimize Python code using libraries such as OpenCV, PyPlot, SciPy, Torch, and PyTorch to process and analyze biological and pharmacological data.
• Design, manage, and maintain relational databases to store and organize large-scale biological and pharmacological datasets, ensuring efficient data retrieval and integration with machine learning models and analysis pipelines.
• Build and integrate machine learning models, particularly in the areas of computer vision and data analysis, to support high-throughput drug discovery.
• Design and implement custom image processing algorithms for biological data analysis, including analyzing microscopy images of biological specimens.
• Create and maintain data visualization tools using R and Python and related relevant libraries to communicate complex scientific findings.
• Collaborate closely with biologists, data scientists, and automation engineers to develop software solutions that bridge biology and technology.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in machine learning, AI, and biotechnology, integrating cutting-edge technologies into the software development process.
• Manage project timelines, ensure milestones are met, and adapt to the dynamic environment of a growing biotech startup.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. An equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.
• Proficiency in Python, with experience using libraries relevant libraries such as OpenCV, PyPlot, SciPy, Torch, and PyTorch.
• Experience in database engineering and management, including design, optimization, and maintenance of relational (e.g., SQL, PostgreSQL, MySQL) and NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra), with an understanding of data modeling, indexing, and query optimization techniques.
• Experience with machine learning model development, particularly for image processing, computer vision, or biological data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of software development tools such as GitHub for project management.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a creative approach to technical challenges.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects in a fast- paced setting.
• A passion for science and applying computational methods to advance longevity research.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Bioinformatics, or a related field.
• Publication history that includes development of algorithms for biological data analysis, particularly in the areas of microscopy image processing or drug screening.
• Familiarity with robotics, laboratory automation, or optical/electrical engineering.
• Experience developing environmental sensing or optical devices.
• Experience with grant writing, particularly in securing funding for technical projects.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with robust equity options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Professional development, training, and growth into leadership roles.
• Dynamic, collaborative startup culture with flexible work hours and hybrid work opportunities.
• Opportunities for charitable and volunteer work with science education and open science initiatives in Seattle and across the longevity biology ecosystem.
• Paid time off and holidays.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their interest and
qualifications to [email protected]. Please include "Software Engineer Application"; in the
subject line.

Ora Biomedical, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to
creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage applications from individuals of all
backgrounds and experiences.

Join us in redefining the future of healthcare and healthy aging through innovation!

Job Title: Business Development Manager
Company: Ora Biomedical, Inc.
Location: Tukwila, WA (hybrid work options available)
Position Type: Full-time

About Ora Biomedical, Inc.:
Ora Biomedical is a cutting-edge longevity biotech company that uses robotics and AI to develop
innovative healthy longevity interventions. Through internal research, contract research studies, and our
open science initiatives like the groundbreaking Million Molecule Challenge, we are dedicated to
identifying the best healthy aging interventions and developing their broadest uses across disease states
and varied environmental stresses.

Launched out of the University of Washington School of Medicine, we are passionate, hard-working
biomedical researchers and are looking for a motivated Business Development Manager to join our
dynamic team as we discover revolutionary longevity interventions that broadly fight chronic illness and
maximize healthy life.

Position Overview:
Ora Biomedical, Inc. is seeking a motivated and dynamic Business Development Manager to lead our
business development efforts and manage client relationships for our contract research services. This
individual will serve as the point person for our clients, including sponsors of the Million Molecule
Challenge, and will oversee the entire business development process—from identifying and bringing in
new contracts to drafting study quotes and managing existing relationships.

The successful candidate will utilize Ora Biomedical’s social media channels and other promotional
strategies to generate interest in contracted research services, which include longevity intervention
testing, disease model testing, and environmental stress resistance assays. This is a unique opportunity to
combine sales acumen with a passion for scientific innovation in the rapidly growing field of longevity
science.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the primary contact for contract research clients and Million Molecule Challenge sponsors.
• Drive business development by identifying potential clients, generating leads, and securing new contracts.
• Work closely with clients to understand their needs and draft customized study quotes for testing longevity interventions, disease models, or environmental stress resistance.
• Develop and execute strategies to promote Ora Biomedical's services using social media and other marketing channels.
• Collaborate with Ora Biomedical’s scientific team to ensure accurate representation of research capabilities and project timelines.
• Provide exceptional customer service to ensure client satisfaction and repeat business.
• Stay informed about the latest developments in longevity science and promote Ora Biomedical as a thought leader in the field.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven experience (2+ years) in business development, sales, account management, or equivalent experience.
• Strong customer service and communication skills, with a track record of building and maintaining client relationships.
• High level of interest in scientific research, particularly in longevity science.
• Experience with social media marketing and business promotion strategies.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a biotech or pharmaceutical sales role.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics).
• Demonstrated passion for longevity science and healthspan research.
• Marketing experience with knowledge of common social media, SEO, and eCommerce engagement tools.

Why Ora Biomedical?
Joining Ora Biomedical means becoming part of a pioneering company at the forefront of longevity
science. You will have the opportunity to work alongside scientists and business leaders dedicated to
discovering new ways to extend healthy human lifespan, while helping the company grow its impact in
the biotech industry. Our benefits include:

• Robust employee equity options.  
• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (401k).
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Collaborative and innovative startup culture.
• Paid time off and holidays.

How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their
interest in the position to [email protected]. Please include "Business Development
Application"; in the subject line of your email. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Ora Biomedical, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. We are growing an inclusive community that
values and celebrates the rich diversity that is the Human experience. We encourage candidates from
diverse backgrounds to apply.

Join our team and help us change the World through longevity therapeutics!