Viral Vector Core Director - Open Rank

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Chapel Hill (NC); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading academic institution in Chapel Hill seeks a Viral Vector Core Director to oversee the manufacturing of plasmid DNA and rAAV vectors. This role demands a PhD and significant experience in biotech, particularly in compliance with industry regulations. The Director will ensure high-quality production while leading the Viral Vector Core and GMP facility. Strong management, communication, and compliance skills are critical for delivering innovative solutions in gene therapy. This position is a full-time, permanent faculty role with a proposed start date of June 1, 2025.

Qualifications

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, or related field.
• At least 7.5 years in a biotech manufacturing environment or pharmaceutical company.
• Experience with the regulatory requirements of biopharmaceutical products.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Viral Vector Core and GMP Viral Vector Core Facility.
• Ensure compliance with cGMPs in manufacturing processes.
• Facilitate communication with other departments for timely product delivery.

Skills

Biotech manufacturing experience

Regulatory compliance

Communication skills

Education

PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, or related field

PhD in Virology

PhD in Biochemistry

Job description

Department: Peds-AIR - 412002

Posting Open Date: 03/25/2025

Open Until Filled: Yes

Position Type: Permanent Faculty

Working Title: Viral Vector Core Director - Open Rank

Appointment Type: Fixed Term Faculty

Vacancy ID: FAC0005510

Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Permanent

Hours per week: 40

FTE: 1

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Hiring Range: Dependent on Experience and Qualifications

Proposed Start Date: 06/01/2025

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The UNC School of Medicine's mission is to improve the health and wellbeing of North Carolinians and others who receive care at our facilities. We provide leadership and excellence in patient care, education, and research.

Position Summary

The School of Medicine is searching for an open rank faculty member to serve as the UNC Viral Vector Core Director. The Director will oversee the Viral Vector Core (VVC) and GMP Viral Vector Core (GVVC) Facility. The VVC focuses on research‑grade manufacturing of plasmid DNA and rAAV vectors at smaller scales. The GVVC manufactures, under cGMP, rAAV vectors using industry standard manufacturing processes and analytical methods. The Director will perform operations to achieve the objectives of the Gene Therapy Center, ensuring compliance with cGMPs and facilitating communication with other departments to deliver high quality product on time.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Virology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Candidates must have at least 7.5 years in a biotech manufacturing environment, CDMO, or pharmaceutical company.
• Candidates must have experience with the regulatory requirements of biopharmaceutical products, experience establishing quality management systems and CMC teams.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Preference for individuals with rAAV vectors manufacturing.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.