Global Head of Research and Biomarkers- Vaccines

Role Summary

Global Head of Research and Biomarkers- Vaccines, located in Waltham, MA, overseeing end-to-end COE Research groups covering pDNA, mRNA, and Delivery (including Lipids discovery and synthesis) as well as a best-in-class mRNA Biomarker Platform. Leads the exploration and optimization of mRNA/LNP design for prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines, drives Biomarker strategy, and provides executive leadership to project teams and scientists to advance transformative mRNA technology.

Responsibilities

• Lead, engage, drive and develop a team whose mission is to conduct research on mRNA, LNP and formulation (Delivery) design for various applications and routes of administration, including: support for targeted disease scientific strategic approach definition; discovery and evaluation of new delivery systems (non-LNP) and associated requirements; identification and synthesis of novel lipids or alternatives; development of novel mRNA stabilization approaches; research of novel elicitors of mRNA translation; development of mRNA formulation; high throughput screening of excipients; thermostable fully liquid formulation; lyophilization/spray dried formulation; and evaluating technologies to improve mRNA generation capabilities, leveraging digital tools at scale.
• Lead, Engage, Drive, And Develop The Biomarker Platform, Including: define and execute the biomarker strategy supporting optimization, development, manufacturing, and registration of mRNA + LNP for vaccines/applications; discover, develop and validate in vitro, in vivo preclinical and clinical biomarker assays; support CMC DS & DP group by analyzing samples via biomarker platform; ensure smooth transfer of analytical methods to analytical group; apply molecular and cell biology to advance RNA-based vaccine technology; perform molecular techniques (recombinant DNA, sequence analysis, DNA/RNA isolation, etc.); support strategic writing of the CMC section of regulatory dossier.
• People: responsible for the selection, attraction, and retention of talents within the mRNA CoE.
• Science And Innovation: provide best environment and support to project teams and scientists.
• Culture & Vx R&D Voice: act as spokesperson/host for Vx R&D at site events, liaising with other functions, representing Vx R&D externally, and leading culture and innovation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Required: PhD in Biotechnology or related field; 15+ years of relevant work experience (Discovery, Research and CMC) in biopharmaceutical/biotech industry in biologics, gene therapy, or cell therapy.
• Required: Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques including analytical techniques.
• Required: Experience with lipid chemistry, lipid modifications, lipid synthesis, and standard analytical techniques for macromolecules.
• Required: Expertise in encapsulation techniques and advanced formulation for oligo/lipid-based products.
• Required: Expertise in cell biology (cell culture, transfections, ELISA, flow cytometry including cell sorting).
• Required: Experience in nanoparticle characterization techniques (DLS, zeta potential, chromatography, etc.).
• Required: Experience in immunological and biochemical assay development in translational medicine is a real asset.
• Required: Desire to initiate and apply innovative approaches to early drug development and predictive modeling.
• Required: Proven track record of managing direct reports and leading teams; experience leading a team of 50+ people at director/AVP levels.
• Required: Strong team building and leadership skills; demonstrate Take The Lead behaviors.

Skills

• Leadership and people management at a senior science organization level
• Strategic thinking and cross-functional collaboration across R&D, CMC, regulatory, and clinical development
• Strong communication and stakeholder management abilities