Scientist - Virology

Genocea Biosciences was founded in 2006 to commercialize key breakthroughs in vaccine discovery and development.  By recreating the human immune system in vitro, Genocea can identify which antigenic epitopes will elicit a competent immune response.  Genocea is based on technology developed from University of California at Berkeley and Harvard Medical School.  The company has assembled a world-class team of vaccine experts from Merck Vaccines, Wyeth Vaccines, CSL Ltd. and the NIH, an experienced management team and is funded by Lux Capital and Polaris Ventures.

 

The candidate will contribute both technical and intellectual expertise towards the development of vaccines against a variety of human infectious diseases. This individual will participate at many levels of a program aimed at developing the company's proprietary antigen screening technology to develop vaccine targets. In addition, the applicant will be expected to apply an understanding of immunology and virology to develop new and innovative vaccines.

 

The candidate will be well versed at handling human pathogens and using them in in vitro or in vivo assessments of pathogenesis.  Experience with virus production, infection of cells, virus stock titrations, as well as in-depth knowledge of in vivo models of viral infection is essential.  

 

Responsibilities for this position include: Achieving key program milestones Generation of antigen-specific primary cell lines from human and animals Propagation and isolation of viral or other infectious agents T-cell stimulation and proliferation In vitro antigen presentation Development of animal models for evaluation of vaccine candidatesPreclinical testing and evaluation of new vaccine candidates Formal and informal communication to internal personnel, external reviewers and advisors

 

Required Skills Proficiency in virology and the ability to perform in a fast-paced, growing company environment is essential Talent conducting animal models of infectious disease including assessment of disease pathology and vaccine efficacy Excellent communication skills and leadership experience Working knowledge of in vitro antigen presentation assaysExpertise in assays for cellular immune function such as ELISA, ELISPOT, and cytotoxicity Familiarity with multiple delivery/adjuvant systems Knowledge of molecular biology and protein expression methodologies

 

Education & Experience PhD or MD/PhD in virology, immunology, or a related discipline with at least 2-4 years of independent research experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry


Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cv and cover letter noting Job Code: SCV – 2008 to Human Resources, Genocea, Inc., 161 1st Street, Suite 2C, Cambridge, MA 02142. FAX: 617-500-0969 or E-Mail: job.opportunities@genocea.com . No agency submissions, please.


Genocea, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer offering a competitive salary and benefits package including 401(k) retirement plan, casual business attire, and professional development in an open, growing, and supportive work environment.