Dr. Chandler Callaway is a scientist at Flagship Biosciences, specializing in assay design and analysis. Chandler loves collaborating with clients to solve diverse scientific problems. He brings a positive attitude and a big-picture mindset to his work, which helps bridge the gap between technical details and strategic goals. Whether he’s optimizing image analysis pipelines or brainstorming innovative approaches to complex biological questions, Chandler is driven by curiosity, creativity, and a genuine passion for advancing science that makes a real-world impact.
What inspired you to pursue a career in science, and what led you to Flagship Biosciences?
I’ve always been a science nerd at heart. What started as a fascination with animals and wildlife evolved into a deep interest in disease and molecular biology. Once I got a taste of research, I was hooked. Science became the perfect way to align my curiosity with my goal of helping people and Flagship was a natural fit with its mission-driven focus and innovative approach.
Can you describe your role at Flagship Biosciences and how your work contributes to advancing digital pathology?
As a scientist at Flagship, I get to wear many lab coats – collaborating with brilliant minds from pharma companies working on therapies for cancer and rare diseases. No two projects are the same, which keeps things exciting! I design and run custom wet chemistry and image analysis assays, crafted to fit each client’s unique scientific needs. It’s incredibly rewarding to turn complex data into clear answers, and even more so when it helps move life-changing therapies forward.
What excites you most about working at the intersection of science, technology, and precision medicine?
What excites me most is the magic that happens when different minds and skill sets come together; scientists, technologists, and pathologists, all teaming up to crack tough scientific challenges. I love collaborating across specialties to uncover insights that support drug discovery, especially in oncology and rare diseases. It feels like solving a high-stakes puzzle, where every piece we fit brings us one step closer to life-changing breakthroughs.
How does your research or scientific expertise help biopharma partners drive innovation in drug development?
My role is all about bridging the gap between curiosity and clarity. I help translate complex biological questions into tailored assays and data strategies that biopharma teams can trust. By designing flexible, forward-thinking experiments, I support our partners in making smarter, faster decisions on their path to developing new therapies.
What are some of the biggest challenges in your field, and how do you approach solving them?
The ever-evolving nature of technology and shifting regulatory requirements means we’re constantly adapting. I approach these challenges with curiosity and flexibility—thinking outside the box, staying informed, and leaning into collaboration. Change isn’t just inevitable; it’s the driver of innovation.
How has your role at Flagship helped you grow as a scientist?
Oh, I’ve definitely grown more nimble! Working in such a fast-paced, ever-evolving environment has stretched my creativity and problem-solving skills. I’ve learned to adapt quickly, stay curious, and embrace the unknown–skills that have made me a more well-rounded and confident scientist.
What emerging trends in pathology or biomarker analysis are you most excited about?
I’m especially excited about the use of AI in image analysis and the integration of multi-modal data; think IHC, RNAseq, and proteomics all working together. This holistic view gives us a better understanding of complex diseases and helps identify the most meaningful biomarkers.
What’s one thing about working at Flagship that has surprised or inspired you?
Coming from academia, I was initially nervous about working directly with clients, but it’s turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the job. These partnerships are often deeply collaborative, and it’s inspiring to work alongside teams who share a common goal: generating the best possible data for patients.
What advice would you give to aspiring scientists looking to work in biotech or digital pathology?
Be open to failure and feedback – it’s all part of the process. Some of the most valuable lessons come from the moments that didn’t go as planned. Keep asking questions, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to pivot when needed.
About Dr. Chandler Callaway
Chandler received his PhD in Cancer Biology from the University of Florida. He currently lives in Denver, Colorado, and enjoys creating custom candles in his free time. His keen sense of humor is sure to spark a laugh from anyone he meets. Who knows—Chandler might just be the key to your next clinical trial project!