Research Associate, Vaccine Development

GIVAX is a Venture Capital-backed biotech company founded through RA Ventures’ incubator. GIVAX is utilizing a novel vector-based vaccine platform to address unmet public health needs in the prevention of infectious gastrointestinal diseases.

SUMMARY:

We are seeking an energetic and motivated individual to join GIVAX. In this role, you will be part of a team that is working on the molecular biology, virology and immune evaluation of viral vector backbones and candidate vaccine viruses. As a Research Associate, you will be responsible for supporting the team in moving the vaccine/s into clinical ready products for Phase 1 and beyond. You will have the opportunity to work with some of the world’s leading scientists in the field of vaccine development to bring our flagship program from discovery to industrialization.

The Research Associate will be responsible for supporting the team in related to the creation of new rotavirus backbones and associated vaccine candidates, as well as their molecular, immune, and viral characterization. This individual will acquire the necessary skills to complete their role through internal training. The incumbent will report to the Director of Vaccine Projects and will work in close collaboration with the R&D team located in our laboratory in Philadelphia.

• Please note: The percentages listed below are related to the expected effort distribution for this role.

• Work with scientists to perform experiments to support vaccine development program.
• Learn new techniques related to molecular biology, virology and immunology as needed.
• Execute plasmid production to support the recovery of rotaviruses by reverse genetics.
• Perform reverse genetics experiments.
• Grow and characterize virus pools for animal studies.
• Perform immunoassays such as ELISA to assess immune responses.
• Prepare media and perform cell culture to support technical team as needed.
• Maintain lab notebook and adhere to good documentation practices.

• Provide support to R&D team to achieve the company mission.
• Participate in relevant Project Teams and proactively maintain an open communication channel with other areas of the company to facilitate collaboration across the company.
• Interact with colleagues transparently and cooperatively, contributing to an open exchange of ideas among team members.
• Ensure efficient and agile communication of key information, processes, workflows, and operational elements in various circumstances.

• Hands-on lab role
• Reports to the Director of Vaccine Projects 
• Location: Philadelphia, PA

• BS/MS in life science discipline or equivalent years’ experience
• Authorization to work in the United States required

• BS/MS in a life science discipline
• Minimum 1 year laboratory experience

• Experience working with infectious diseases (BSL2 or above).
• Knowledge of virology, immunology, molecular biology, or protein chemistry.
• Experience working with human cell culture, able to independently maintain cell culture and prepare samples for bio-assays.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams effectively and to build strong relationships with partners.
• Ability to work independently and take personal initiative to complete tasks.
• Strong organizational/time management skills and ability prioritize tasks.
• Flexibility and willingness to support the team in execution of project goals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, fluency in English (written and spoken).