Vaccine R&D Epidemiologist

CEPI is looking for an Epidemiologist with experience in vaccinology to join our growing Vaccine Research and Development (R&D) Department. Specifically, the Epidemiological function will support CEPI, its partners and stakeholders by bridging key epidemiological knowledge gaps for vaccine development. This will be achieved by: 1) identifying, characterising, and addressing epidemiological knowledge gaps throughout vaccine development; 2) conceptualising epidemiological activities to deliver high impact epidemiological data directly addressing barriers that may impair rapid and equitable vaccine development and access, and 3) providing upstream strategic input to inform pathogen prioritisation and vaccine development pathways. The Epidemiology function therefore ensures that scientific advice, innovation on vaccine evaluation and public health needs are integrated with product development. Given the cross-functional nature of the epidemiological activities across the vaccine development value chain, the Epidemiological Team works in close collaboration with the other R&D functions.

We are looking for candidates that are motivated by CEPI’s mission, have an advanced degree (Master or Doctoral) in Epidemiology or relevant discipline (Public Health), with five or more years’ experience conducting epidemiological research in the specialised field of vaccinology.

This role reports to the Head of Epidemiology. The team is based in Oslo, and we are primarily looking for candidates in Norway. We will, however, also consider candidates who could be based London, UK.

In CEPI we strive for diverse thinking, and we want diverse pools of candidates for all our vacancies. We work for an inclusive working environment where each employee can contribute and grow.

Purpose of role

The key purpose of the role is to enable accelerated development of CEPI’s vaccine candidate portfolio against our priority pathogens.

Responsibilities

• Act as the Epidemiological lead for assigned CEPI’s priority diseases
• Ensure CEPI is provided with timely, reliable, and appropriately analysed epidemiological data on CEPI’s priority diseases to inform ongoing and future vaccine development
• Develop and implement epidemiological activities/projects that enable vaccine development
• Conduct analysis and presentation of results for review by CEPI’s bodies (Technical Review Group, Portfolio Strategy and Management Board, Research, Development and Manufacturing Investment Committee, Scientific Advisory Committee) and to other R&D functions
• Develop priority pathogen specific strategies from a vaccine development perspective
• Represent the Epidemiology Team in cross-functional teams across CEPI
• Establish a strong working relation with the Project manager to jointly ensure timely deliverables and to ensure that projects are managed in an effective way
• Develop internal partnership with key R&D departments: Clinical Development, Enabling Sciences, Regulatory Affairs to provide these functions with epidemiological data on at-risk groups, circulation strains, disease background rates etc. for optimal vaccine development and licensure
• Participate in interactions and represent CEPI’s position with external stakeholders, such as World Health Organization, European CDC, Africa CDC, Wellcome Trust, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, related to epidemiological data and vaccine development
• Manage externally commissioned research projects, which includes establishing, maintaining, and expanding relationships to partner effectively with external experts and research groups to negotiate time frames, resource requirements, and ensure timely delivery of the results as agreed
• Keep abreast of epidemiological developments in vaccinology within academia, regulatory, and among key opinion leaders

Education, Experience, Knowledge and Skills

• Essential qualifications
• Advanced degree (Master or Doctoral) degree in Epidemiology or relevant discipline (Public Health)
• 5 or more years’ experience conducting epidemiological research in the specialized field of vaccinology
• Experience working in the pharmaceutical vaccine industry, or not-for profit vaccine development, as an epidemiologist for vaccine development projects in global multidisciplinary teams
• Preferred qualifications
• Field research experience on CEPI’s priority pathogens in LMICs is a significant plus
• Having a clear understanding of fundamental concepts and principles of genetic epidemiology and the ability to analyse and interpret population-based genetic association studies is a plus
• Strong analytical skills, particularly the ability to analyse and interpret population-based surveillance data
• Excellent time and self-management skills. Strong planning and tracking skills, well-organised, focused on results, capable of managing multiple projects
• Demonstrable problem-solving abilities with ability to identify issues seeking advice as required
• High level of self-awareness and ability to collaborate with people cross-functionally and across different geographic regions
• Strong critical and objective interpretation of development and scientific issues with the ability to articulate and establish processes which impact cross-functional activities.
• Ability to balance multiple and complex tasks, and effectively perform in a matrix environment

Travel and Location Requirements

• This role is likely to involve some international travel.
• The position can be based in Oslo, Norway or London, UK.

What We can Offer You

• Experience from the international effort on developing vaccines against emerging infectious diseases and accelerating vaccine development response to outbreaks
• The opportunity to work together with leading internal and external experts on solutions for global challenges
• A diverse and inclusive working environment

How to Apply

If you are interested in being considered for this position, please visit https://cepi.net/careers/ for more informatio on how to apply.

Applications must be received by 23:59 CET on 30 April 2021