Graduate Faculty Focus | James Cherry

James Cherry, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Biology at Hood College, where he currently teaches courses in Cell Biology, Cancer Model Systems, and more.

Dr. Cherry recently became the Associate Director for Research Technologies and Chief of the Research Technology Branch for the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). We spoke to Dr. Cherry about his new position and what it's like working for the NIAID.

James Cherry, Assistant Professor of Biology, Ph.D.

Program

Biomedical Science (M.S.)
Biology (B.A.)
4PLUS Biology (B.A.)/Biomedical Science (M.S.) Program

Department

Biology

Faculty
Graduate School
Graduate Student

Academics
Partnerships
Research
Natural Sciences

05/06/2021

"As the new Associate Director/Chief of NIAID's Division of Intramural Research (DIR), I will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with other members of NIAID's DIR who perform research on immunology, allergy, and infectious diseases."

Tell us a little bit about your new position?

As the new Associate Director/Chief (of NIAID's Division of Intramural Research), I will have the unique opportunity to collaborate with other members of NIAID's DIR who perform research on immunology, allergy, and infectious diseases.

I will oversee a staff of approximately 125 scientists—most with advanced degrees—and several large, complex programs located on NIAID’s campuses in Bethesda and Rockville (Maryland) and in Hamilton (Montana). These research groups are focused on developing project-specific applications using state-of-the-art technologies, providing technology consultation, evaluating new technology and applications, and supporting DIR investigators’ bioinformatics needs.

How has it been working with Dr. Fauci?

I have not yet been working directly with Dr. Fauci, but with Dr. Sharpless, the NCI Director, in collaboration with NIAID to standup the Serological Sciences Programs.

In that context, it has been the silver lining during the pandemic, as we focus on better understanding the adaptive and innate immune response to the virus. In addition, we are developing the National Reference Standard for antibody testing in collaboration with the WHO to increase testing capacity across the country. We also have proceeded to provide tools for SARS-CoV-2 post-vaccine surveillance studies for cancer and immunocompromised individuals.

Any other relevant or interesting information that you would like to share?

I am very proud of many moments as a member of the National Cancer Institute, and I look forward to supporting the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases reach the institute's goals. I will continue to foster the strong relationship that is between the NCI and NIAID.

Inspired by Dr. Cherry’s story and ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn about Hood College’s graduate programs, including the Biomedical Science Master’s Program, by clicking here.