Senior Program Officer, Preclinical Vaccine Development

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering a supportive work environment that promotes both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer, Preclinical Vaccine Development, plays a crucial role within the Accelerator team, overseeing a portfolio of investments and partnerships focused on the development of innovative oral polio vaccine candidates. This position is pivotal in leading strategic initiatives aimed at creating high-impact vaccines that can be transitioned to clinical development within a two-year timeframe. The officer will collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure the successful development of these vaccines, providing leadership and strategic direction throughout the process. The role requires a deep understanding of vaccine development, regulatory requirements, and the ability to navigate complex partnerships to maximize project impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will be responsible for several key duties, including: partnering with team leadership to develop and implement strategies for novel oral polio vaccines; acting as the foundation's Project Lead for preclinical vaccine development programs; negotiating and managing a portfolio of grants and contracts; consulting with grantees to enhance project impact; advising on preclinical vaccine study design; providing technical guidance on Integrated Product Development Plans; forging collaborations with global vaccine development experts; representing the foundation at internal and external meetings; and actively seeking new partnership opportunities to advance global health programs. The role also involves a commitment to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong tolerance for ambiguity and the ability to simplify complex problems. An understanding of regulatory requirements for vaccine development is essential, along with a commitment to innovation in this field. The ideal candidate will demonstrate intellectual curiosity, resourcefulness, and resilience, with a proven ability to work flexibly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Experience in low- and middle-income countries, along with skills in business and technical due diligence assessments, is highly desirable. Strong judgment, attention to detail, and exceptional communication skills are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including advanced degrees in fields related to public health, biomedical sciences, or a similar discipline. Candidates should have a solid foundation in vaccine development and related scientific principles, which will enable them to effectively contribute to the foundation's mission and objectives.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in vaccine development, particularly in preclinical stages. Candidates should have a track record of managing complex projects and partnerships, with demonstrated success in navigating the intricacies of vaccine and biologics development. Experience working in diverse cultural and professional environments is also important, as is the ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not detailed, proficiency in English is mandatory due to the nature of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse audiences. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the regions where the foundation operates.

Additional Notes:
This is a 2-Year Limited Term Employment (LTE) position. The salary range for this role is between $233,600 to $362,200 USD, with specific adjustments for high-wage markets like Seattle and Washington D.C., where the range is $254,700 to $394,700 USD. The foundation aims to balance competitive compensation with its mission-driven focus. New hires typically start within the range minimum and midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. The hiring process includes a background check, and accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.