* Ready to make a difference? Vaxxas is on the lookout for a Preclinical Scientist. Apply today *
Overview of position
The Preclinical Scientist role is responsible for planning, executing and writing up preclinical studies and performing, and optimising assays as required whilst assisting with technology transfer and routine testing within the Preclinical team. The role engages in testing, troubleshooting, data capture and data analysis within the preclinical team. Some work on formulation and coating development and animal model studies may be included from time to time, supporting broader aspects of the work of the Early Stage and Preclinical R&D team.
Duties & Responsibilities
* Plan, manage and execute preclinical studies (immunology/toxicology) as required.
* Establish new and conduct routine analytical tests of vaccine products and samples using bioanalytical techniques and immunoassays (i.e. ELlSA, protein assays, hemagglutination inhibition, DLS, Western blot, etc.).
* Characterisation of different vaccine types (live/inactivated microorganisms/proteins/protein conjugates/VLP/LNP/encapsulated nucleic acids/adjuvants).
* Optimise existing bioanalytical/analytical assays to meet the needs of the vaccine R&D projects undertaken by the Early Stage and RNA Programs team.
* Identify, develop and transfer bioanalytical/analytical assays to meet the needs of the vaccine R&D projects undertaken by the Early Stage and RNA Programs team.
* Apply scientific expertise and judgment to initiate, design and execute relevant preclinical studies.
* Conduct one-off and routine lab experiments using project-relevant technologies in conjunction with team members; provide analytical support to the team.
* Assist with assay transfer to/from Vaxxas to/from collaborators for routine use.
* Data processing, analysis and documentation of test results and manufacturing protocols in compliance with the Quality Management System.
* Ensure all assay-related documentation (i.e. methods/procedures, SOPs, technical & analytical notes, qualification docs) generated by the team are accurate, complete, and appropriate for the stage of development. Prepare reports and presentations summarising work completed.
* The preparation of biological buffers and reagents. Ordering and organisation / maintenance of laboratory consumables and equipment.
Qualifications
* Degree in Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, or related discipline.
* 5+ years' experience, industry preferred.
Essential knowledge, skills and abilities
* Preclinical experience (mice, rats) in vaccines and/or biologics, preferably within a pharmaceutical industry environment.
* Wet lab work testing vaccines / biologics (i.e. ELlSA, protein assays, hemagglutination inhibition, DLS, Western blot, etc.).
Desired knowledge, skills and abilities
* Preclinical experience (large companion animals) in vaccines and/or biologics, preferably within a pharmaceutical industry environment.
* Experience in the development of assays, documenting assay methods and transferring those methods for routine use.
* Experience in assay troubleshooting and optimisation.
* Experience in working to GLP/GMP standards.
* Strong commitment to detail oriented practice.
About Vaxxas
Vaxxas is a privately held, clinical stage biotechnology company focused on enhancing the performance of existing and next-generation vaccines with its proprietary high-density microarray patch (HD-MAP). Vaxxas is targeting initial applications in infectious disease and oncology.
The company's innovative, needle-free technology can eliminate or significantly reduce the need for vaccine refrigeration during storage and transportation, easing the resource and logistics burden of maintaining the vaccine cold chain.
In addition to a Phase I clinical study of a COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Vaxxas is performing demonstration work in preparation for clinical evaluation under contract with the United States Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) on pandemic vaccination solutions, among multiple other clinical and preclinical programs.
The company has forged collaborations with leading global organisations in vaccine commercialisation, including Merck/MSD, CEPI, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Gates Foundation.
Learn more at
If you are ready to harness your expertise as a Preclinical Scientist to make a difference, we want to hear from you
To be considered, please submit your Resume and a cover letter (outlining your core capability for the role, demonstrated experience of how you have delivered outcomes and why this role is of interest) by selecting the "apply for this job" function. You will be contacted directly if your application is successful.