San Francisco Bay Area
Scientist specializing in high‑throughput screening (HTS), cellular assay development, and automation‑enabled drug discovery. I design and execute large-scale phenotypic and 3D cell model assays that improve data quality, increase throughput, and accelerate hit‑to‑lead decision‑making. Led HTS screening campaigns, developed assays across Flavivirus, Cryptosporidium, and Malaria, and optimized 384‑/1536‑well platforms. My work contributed to advancing NITD‑688 (pan‑serotype anti‑dengue) and three additional infectious disease candidates into clinical development. Industry strengths include building and streamlining lab operations, implementing robust SOPs and error‑recovery processes, and leading cross‑functional collaboration with biology, chemistry, data science, and operations teams. I’m motivated by scalable, high‑impact discovery workflows that drive pipeline productivity and deliver high‑confidence data for portfolio decisions.
Contributed to programs targeting emerging viruses with pandemic potential as a pivotal member of drug discovery teams. Developed and executed biological assays to identify and characterize both small molecule antivirals and biologics, driving the selection of promising therapeutic candidates. Played an integral role in coordinating experimental design using advanced 3D cell models, analyzing complex datasets, and presenting critical findings to multidisciplinary project teams. Demonstrated leadership by mentoring a team of scientists and student, managing the recruitment and onboarding processes, setting performance goals, and fostering professional growth. Facilitated resource planning and enabled effective cross-functional collaboration across multiple sites, ensuring seamless project execution and alignment with organizational objectives. Oversaw the establishment and management of BSL2 Virology laboratories, maintaining rigorous compliance with safety and operational standards. Collaborated with external partners, such as the UTMB Novartis Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness (NIH-funded), to support and advance antiviral research initiatives through joint efforts and shared expertise.
Key contributor to success of drug discovery and early development projects - Build and support NITD Lead Discovery scientific capabilities and discovery - Establish various workflows to enable mid to high throughput screening campaigns - Develop a robust High Content Imaging protocols and perform trouble-shooting - Train and transfer skills and knowledge to junior associates Independently conceive assay development using automation in BSL2 environment - Conduct experiments to search for novel chemical matter that modulates the Malaria Integrated Stress Response - Develop a novel N-Luc Kill kinetics HCI assay against Cryptosporidiosis and a novel Malaria Luc Ring Stage assay - Provide inputs to project team and strategic discussion Executed multiple HTS cellular screening campaigns - Proficient in executing multiple screening activities in parallel - Independently analyze data to access screen quality - Coordinated smooth transition from NITD Singapore to Emeryville, actively involved in hiring and training of new-hires
- Screened and analysed millions of compounds with High Content Imaging (HCI)- Cell based assay - Designed and coordinated drug discovery activities for compound testing and profiling in - Supported assay development eg, Miniaturization of high density plates and validation of reagents - Established use of cyropreserved cell technology. - Experienced in error recovery, trouble-shooting and ensured compliance to institute Novartis standards Skills and Techniques: - Virology, molecular biology technique and assay methods (Plaque assay, Virus production, ELISA, cloning, RT-PCR, Alpha-screen, reporter assay). - Enzyme assay (ie. DeNovo assay) and protein production and purification. - Ability to culture a variety of different human and mammalian cell types ( BHK21, A549, Huh7, HepG2, THP-1 and human PBMC). - Cloning, Western Blot, Extraction of RNA/DNA - Mouse work: Blood collection and injection - Experience in propagating parasite culture eg. Malaria and Trypanosome
Dr Katja Fink's Lab Final Year Project Thesis: Testing of an optimal antibody immune response against Dengue virus proteins in mice. Research Experience: Investigated immune responses in Dengue-infected AG129 mice using various immunological methods - Awarded as finalist in best project presentation and obtained a distinction in final year project thesis
Research Experience: Use of Molecular Biology technique such as PCR to identify Influenza Virus strains