Chief, Viral Pathogenesis Laboratory

Chief, Viral Pathogenesis Laboratory

Vaccine Research Center

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) – one of the largest Institutes of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) – is seeking to recruit an outstanding, highly creative tenured investigator to serve as Chief of the Viral Pathogenesis Laboratory (VPL) at the Vaccine Research Center (VRC).

Within NIAID, the VRC conducts research to develop vaccines for human diseases using an interdisciplinary approach. Through the combination of basic, translational, and applied research in immunology, virology, disease pathogenesis, molecular biology, structural biology, and clinical investigation, along with strong capabilities in regulatory science and clinical material manufacturing, the VRC advances novel technologies from the laboratory to the clinic in the pursuit of improving public health outcomes.

The Viral Pathogenesis Laboratory (VPL) is dedicated to understanding how viruses cause disease and to defining immunologic mechanisms through which vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and other biomedical countermeasures can be used to prevent or modify disease. To define how viruses cause disease, the VPL examines functional and structural features of the viral pathogen, as well as elucidating mechanisms for regulating the composition and timing of the host immune response. These studies encompass in vitro systems, animal models, and clinical trials.

At the core of the VRC mission is the application of scientific and technological knowledge to design and develop vaccines and biologics against infectious, emerging, and re-emerging diseases of high public health burden. The incumbent for this position is expected to carry out pioneering research to generate medical countermeasures as part of pandemic preparedness and response. This work involves cross-VRC participation of multiple investigators in the fields of microbiology, immunology, virology, structural biology, clinical investigation, and pathogenesis.

The successful candidate will share the VRC’s vision for collaboration and mentorship and the application of transdisciplinary approaches to lead the VPL in conducting research advancing the understanding of viral pathogenesis and to translate this research into the development of vaccines and related biopharmaceuticals. The incumbent will be expected to develop an innovative and highly collaborative research program that includes basic and translational studies. Applicants must have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent in a relevant field with a strong publication record and proven ability to carry out a creative, independent research program. Areas of research focus include, but are not limited to: immunology, virus/host interactions, host immunity, virology, and viral pathogenesis.

Applicants should submit a CV/Bibliography, including a list of former mentees, a statement describing their scientific, clinical (if applicable), and administrative vision for the laboratory, including approaches to training, management, and commitment to fostering diversity in biomedical research; and at least three reference letters submitted directly from the referees. Please include in your CV a description of mentoring and outreach activities in which you have been involved, especially those involving women and persons from other groups underrepresented in biomedical research. All application materials should be submitted to NIAIDVRCPCSS@niaid.nih.gov.

This position is fully funded by the intramural research program of NIAID and includes support for salary, laboratory support personnel, equipment, space, supplies and services, and research animals/animal housing. Salary is commensurate with experience and accomplishments. A full civil-service package of benefits (including retirement; health, life, and long-term care insurance; and a Thrift Savings Plan) is available. Women and people from groups underrepresented in biomedical research are especially encouraged to apply.

Completed applications will be reviewed starting November 26, 2022 and will be accepted until the position is filled. For additional information about the position, please contact Sarah Austin (austinsj@niaid.nih.gov).

HHS, NIH, and NIAID are equal opportunity employers. NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.