Scientist/Sr. Scientist, Formulation

About Us:

Vaxart is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a range of oral recombinant vaccines based on its proprietary delivery platform. Vaxart vaccines are administered using convenient room temperature-stable tablets that can be stored and shipped without refrigeration.

Vaxart has demonstrated that its proprietary tablet vaccine delivery platform is suitable to deliver recombinant vaccines, positioning the company to develop oral versions of currently marketed vaccines and to design recombinant vaccines for new indications. Its development programs currently include tablet vaccines designed to protect against coronavirus, norovirus, seasonal influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as a therapeutic vaccine for human papillomavirus (HPV), Vaxart’s first immuno-oncology indication.

Our mission is the promotion of global health through the development of effective vaccines that can be administered by tablet rather than by injection, providing for the simple and efficient distribution and administration of safe vaccines in any setting.

We are looking for a Scientist/Sr. Scientist of Formulation to join our growing South San Francisco team!

Summary:

We are seeking an independent, motivated scientist to join our formulations team aimed at developing novel vaccine formulations in tablets. The Senior Scientist/Scientist is responsible for designing, executing, and reporting experimental activities in the Formulation Process Development laboratory with a focus on developing the next generation Ad5 production process. The successful candidate will be asked to troubleshoot existing platforms and to develop new formulations to increase product stability and yield, decrease process time, and improve the robustness of the formulation. The Senior Scientist communicates progress and results to senior management via technical reports and or presentations. The Senior Scientist must be able to work closely with Downstream and the Manufacturing units to define operations that fit manufacturing constraints and corporate timelines. The Senior Scientist trains and mentors junior scientists, to take a leading role in designing and organizing the Formulation Development laboratory, and to establish a culture of general compliance, safe operations, and proper documentation and communication of results. Familiarity with viral vector production would be a significant asset.

Responsibilities:

• The candidate must be able to apply advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts to solve complex technical problems.
• Knowledge and familiarity with analytical methods for formulation screening of complex biological is a must. (Particle characterization, DLS, DSC, Zeta potential, osmolality, titer assays, purity assays)
• Knowledge and familiarity with dry powder operations and/or coating processes are desirable.
• Writes and/or reviews protocols, development reports, batch records, standard operating procedures, other technical reports in support of manufacturing, and process tech transfer. Ensures that results are properly archived and communicated.
• Responsible for understanding and applying data generated from experiments and literature used to modify/optimize process parameters. Evaluate new technology and procedures.
• Manages and trains staff as appropriate in laboratory activities. Ensures that training and compliance records for themselves and staff are up to date and appropriate. Also ensures that all safety procedures are followed.
• Proactively communicates with internal and external stakeholders. Establish and foster relationships with contract manufacturing organizations.
• Provides Subject Matter Expertise and leadership to the Drug Product unit.

Requirements:

• B.S. or M.S. Degree in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Biochemistry, or other appropriate fields.
• 10 plus years of relevant industry experience or Ph.D. and 5 plus years of relevant experience.
• Familiarity in the production and purification of viral products.
• Experience in pre-formulation and biophysical characterization.
• Familiarity with formulation development studies and Design of Experiments
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to gain the cooperation of others.

Vaccination Requirement:

Vaxart has implemented a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy which requires our employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID as a condition of employment. Vaxart will make reasonable accommodations for valid exemptions based on disability, medical, or religious reasons. Vaxart prioritizes sound science and available facts to best ensure the ongoing safety of our employees and the community.

Vaxart offers team members a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a robust health plan, bonus program, stock options, 401K with employer matching, tuition assistance, and work-life balance.

Vaxart is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity. We are committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and affirmative action for all applicants and employees. Equal opportunity and consideration are afforded to all qualified applicants and employees in personnel actions, which include recruiting and hiring, selection for training, promotion, rates of pay or other compensation, transfer, discipline, demotion, and layoff or termination. Vaxart does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, gender identity, gender expression, family medical history or genetic information, citizenship, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran status, military status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation.