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Expired
  • Location: Haywards Heath
  • Salary: Highly Competitive Salary
  • Job Type:Permanent

Posted almost 2 years ago

  • Sector: Scientific Development
  • Contact: Oli Baylis
  • Contact Email: oli.baylis@nextphaserecruitment.com
  • Contact Phone: 01403 216216
  • Start Date: 2022-05-05
  • Job Ref: V-47321
A biotechnology company in Burgess Hill (soon to be relocating to Haywards Heath as a result of rampant expansion) is looking for two experienced molecular virologists that have a knack for autonomy, a disciplined approach to research, and - above all else - a deeply collaborative spirit.
About The Company:
Using their proprietary oral vaccine platform technology, their vision in the near future is to produce self-administered vaccines (in a tablet, capsule, or nasal spray) that are thermally stable and can be distributed by mail.
This ground-breaking technology is based on non-replicating viral vectors that can deliver heterologous antigens to the mucosal and systemic immune system, and are rendered thermally stable as a result of formulation with a proprietary mix of excipients.
The company is currently working towards providing vaccinations for coronavirus, zika virus, norovirus, and the flu – however once drug formulations are produced, they are keen to transfer their technology to other viral diseases and therapy areas.
The products that the company is developing will not just create a more convenient method of medication for those in nations where intravenous therapy is already accessible, but has the capability to drastically improve the quality of lives for those in less developed economies where the efficacy of this therapy is logistically limited.
About You:
  • PhD in Virology, Microbiology or related discipline and 3+ years working experience (or equivalent experience).
  • Industry background highly desirable.
  • Excellent command of molecular biology techniques acquired through working with pathogens or genetically modified viral vectors.
  • Strong understanding of viruses and viral infection. A track record of working with animal/human viruses is desirable.
  • Excellent command of laboratory techniques for handling and working with viruses (including expansion in cell culture).
  • Assay development expertise in relevant virological, molecular and biochemistry techniques (such as virus propagation and titration, RT-qPCR, ELISA, western blot analyses and immunofluorescence etc.).
  • Experience working with viruses in the areas of gene therapy, vaccine or anti-viral product development is highly desirable. Applicants with relevant experience in a viral disease diagnostics context will also be considered.
  • Experience of independent, self-directed work, excellent organizational and communication skills.
  • Demonstratable contribution to technology or Discovery projects, with experience of implementing new techniques.
  • A good understanding of the drug development process and the importance of Quality assurance in a laboratory environment (GMP/GLP/GCP) would be advantageous.
 
 
About The Role:
 
This opportunity would be ideal for a scientist with a proven track record in molecular virology research, looking to advance their career and contribute to the strategic direction of a R&D organization by taking a leading scientific role in a multidisciplinary team. You will help shape the teams’ scientific direction to better understand a range of vaccine candidates and drive projects which aim to solve the molecular and cellular mechanisms underpinning vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing biotechnology organization dedicated to delivering innovative solutions in the oral vaccine development space. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to shape and contribute to the discovery efforts for novel vaccines against infection by leading and executing complex research assignments using a wide range of molecular virology and mammalian cell culture-based systems together with immunoassay techniques. The successful candidate will be expected to design studies and conduct experimental work aimed at producing and purifying viral vectored vaccine candidates, as well as establishing bioassays and models of infection to screen and characterise the vaccine candidates prior to supplying the development team to undertake preclinical research for regulatory filings for first in man clinical testing. The incumbent will be involved in activities across multiple projects. They will work in a vibrant and strongly collaborative environment within a multidisciplinary team which aims to realize the potential of a new generation of vaccines.
 
Role Responsibilities:
  • Conduct experimental work aimed at producing novel viral vectors and candidate vaccines using a variety of molecular biology, mammalian tissue culture and virus purification techniques.
  • Use a variety of techniques to investigate viral attributes and characterise wild-type viruses and viral vectors both in vitro and in vivo. Identify and interpret virus characterisation findings to help guide scientific decision making related to product development projects.
  • Develop novel bioassays aimed at testing the biological, immunological and biochemical attributes of vaccine candidates leading to formulation of SOPs and qualification of assays, with respect to sensitivity, specificity, range, stability, reproducibility and precision. Troubleshoot new assays and techniques, as needed.
  • Use molecular virology research techniques and a variety of assays to investigate host-pathogen interactions and the immune mechanisms of protection induced by vaccines.
  • Maintain awareness of developments in the field, be pro-active in introducing new techniques and capabilities into the organization. Display awareness of published literature and externally available platforms and technologies.
  • Contributing to strategic planning by generating work plans, experimental road maps and result reports. Participate in team technical discussions and problem-solving exercises.
  • Prepare written reports and present data for audiences inside and outside the company, including collaborators, partners and regulatory agencies. Prepare peer-reviewed manuscripts and present data at national and international conferences when required.
  • Contribute to Analytical and Preclinical sections of CTA/IND submissions, Investigator Brochures, IMPDs, briefing packages for regulatory meetings.
 
All applicants must have the Right to Work in the UK, and further details about the role and company will be provided upon application.