Senior Research Fellow - Immunology and Vaccine Development

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension plan

Annual leave

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Fellow in Port Elizabeth to lead vaccine R&D in Immunology and Vaccinology. The role involves designing and executing in vitro and in vivo studies, analyzing complex immune data and advancing candidates from early research to preclinical development.

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in immunology or related field with at least 4 years postdoctoral/industry vaccine experience, proven publication record, and strong collaboration skills in a

Qualifications

• PhD in Immunology, Microbiology, Virology or related field.
• Minimum of 4 years postdoctoral or industry vaccine R&D experience.
• Strong expertise in adaptive and innate immune responses.
• Hands-on experience with flow cytometry and ELISA.
• Experience with animal models for infectious disease research is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate immunogenicity and efficacy of novel vaccine candidates.
• Utilize immunological techniques including flow cytometry, ELISAs, ELISpot assays, and cell-based assays.
• Perform in vivo studies in animal models to assess vaccine performance and safety.
• Analyze and interpret complex immunological and virological data, generating reports.
• Contribute to development of new vaccine platforms and formulation strategies.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners including academic institutions and CROs.
• Stay current with scientific literature in immunology and vaccinology.
• Contribute to preparation of regulatory documents, publications, and patent applications.

Skills

Immunology

Vaccine development

Data analysis

Scientific writing/publications

Education

PhD in Immunology or related field

Tools

Flow cytometry

ELISA

ELISpot

Animal models

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading biopharmaceutical company renowned for its contributions to infectious disease control, is actively seeking a highly motivated Senior Research Fellow to join their cutting-edge Immunology and Vaccine Development team. This challenging role is based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , and offers a unique opportunity to drive critical research initiatives aimed at creating novel vaccines against prevalent global health threats. You will be responsible for designing and executing in vitro and in vivo studies, analyzing complex immunological data, and contributing to the advancement of vaccine candidates from early-stage research through preclinical development. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of immune responses, extensive experience with vaccine technologies, and a strong publication record. This position is essential for expanding our client's vaccine pipeline and making a tangible difference in public health. Join our innovative team in Port Elizabeth and contribute to a healthier future.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments to evaluate the immunogenicity and efficacy of novel vaccine candidates.
• Utilize a range of immunological techniques, including flow cytometry, ELISAs, ELISpot assays, and cell-based assays.
• Perform in vivo studies in animal models to assess vaccine performance and safety.
• Analyze and interpret complex immunological and virological data, generating comprehensive reports.
• Contribute to the development of new vaccine platforms and formulation strategies.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams and external partners, including academic institutions and contract research organizations.
• Stay current with the latest scientific literature and advancements in immunology and vaccinology.
• Contribute to the preparation of regulatory documents, research publications, and patent applications.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of postdoctoral or industry experience in vaccine research and development.
• Proven expertise in immunology, with a strong focus on adaptive and innate immune responses.
• Hands-on experience with techniques relevant to vaccine evaluation, including flow cytometry and ELISA.
• Experience with animal models for infectious disease research is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and interpret complex experiments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a track record of publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment in Port Elizabeth.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package. This includes excellent medical aid coverage, retirement fund contributions, and generous annual leave.
• We are committed to fostering professional growth and provide opportunities for continuous learning, including access to scientific conferences, workshops, and advanced training programs.
• Employees benefit from state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and a collaborative, innovative work culture.
• This role offers the chance to make a significant impact on global health from the scenic city of Port Elizabeth.
• Assistance with relocation may be considered for exceptional candidates.