Senior Program Officer, Clinical Immunology in Vaccines & Biologics (VxBx)

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. It offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, and opportunities for employee engagement in various communities. The foundation is committed to fostering a supportive work environment that promotes both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
As a Senior Program Officer in Clinical Immunology within the Vaccines & Biologics (VxBx) team, you will play a crucial role in fostering a culture of innovation aimed at accelerating the translation of research into practical health solutions. Your passion for problem-solving and addressing relevant questions will be essential as you engage with the international biomedical scientific and clinical research community. You will be expected to maintain a cutting-edge understanding of the field, provide deep subject matter expertise, and act as a thought partner both internally and externally. This role requires agility, efficiency, and diplomacy as you navigate a dynamic environment and collaborate with diverse partners across various subject areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your responsibilities will include assisting the Vaccines and Biologics Deputy Directors in developing strategies to address critical gaps in the Global Health vaccine and biologics portfolio. You will conceptualize, shape, and drive initiatives in key strategy areas, manage a substantial portfolio of investments, and establish performance objectives for projects. Additionally, you will identify and select partner institutions, develop scopes and strategies for grants and contracts, and cultivate existing partnerships while building new networks. You will also engage with foundation colleagues to drive strategic initiatives, provide subject matter expertise, represent the foundation externally, and contribute to diligence teams evaluating investments in biotech and academic partners. Monitoring technology trends and preparing reports for foundation leadership will also be part of your role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess deep expertise in human immunology and infectious diseases, with experience in clinical studies aimed at improving vaccine efficacy and durability. A proven track record of at least 10 years in a relevant field, along with a PhD or MD, is required. Candidates should have significant technical depth in human immunology and vaccine development, including experience with monoclonal antibodies, immunogen design, and nucleic acid-based delivery platforms. The ability to assess new technologies and collaborate effectively in a dynamic environment is essential, as is experience working with diverse teams and global partners.

Educational Background:
A PhD or MD in a relevant field is required, with a strong emphasis on human immunology and infectious diseases. Academic candidates should have experience as independent principal investigators and have held their own grants, demonstrating a solid foundation in research and development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, ideally in academic, industry, or similar positions. Experience in designing and applying clinical studies and assays to address fundamental human biology and immunology questions is crucial. Proven collaboration skills and the ability to work flexibly and efficiently in a matrixed environment are also important.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the role. Additional language skills may be beneficial for engaging with diverse global partners.

Additional Notes:
The salary range for this position is between $261,700 to $405,700 USD, with higher ranges for positions based in Seattle and Washington D.C. New hires typically fall between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range, depending on their skills and experience. The organization emphasizes a mission-driven approach to compensation, balancing competitive pay with its overarching goals. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities during the application process. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.