Overview
Research Officer (holding a functional title of Senior Research Scientist) in the Hong Kong Jockey Club Global Health Institute (HKJCGHI) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU).
Responsibilities
* Develop and manage the process development laboratory at HKJCGHI, including GLP compliant lab areas, and support research projects at HKJCGHI.
* Lead, support and coordinate the process development of vaccine candidates; supervise technology transfer of vaccine candidates developed at GHI-IVI to vaccine manufacturers.
* Manage staff and sub-departments in the Vaccine Process Development department at HKJCGHI.
* Contribute to preparation/review of research reports, manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and presentations for scientific meetings.
* Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders – including researchers, public health agencies, and policy-makers – and support capacity-building activities and knowledge translation efforts in LMICs.
Qualifications
* Master’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or a related field. PhD in a relevant discipline is desirable but not mandatory.
* At least 15 years of relevant experience (at least 12 years for PhD holders) in developing and managing process development laboratories or related manufacturing operations, particularly for vaccines targeting infectious diseases.
* Knowledge and experience in vaccine development/production of biomolecules using cell-culture platforms (e.g. viral vaccines); familiarity with bacterial- and mRNA-based vaccines, immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, and assay development for product characterization.
* Experience with cultivation and purification of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses in vaccine development, preferably in GLP or GMP facilities. Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative assays for vaccine development is advantageous.
* Excellent written and spoken English, strong communication, organizational skills, ability to work independently and in a team. Preference for candidates with prior vaccine/biopharmaceutical industry experience or LMIC experience.
What we offer
* Highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience
* Annual leave and medical benefits
* Contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme up to 15% of basic salary
* Housing benefits where applicable
Appointment details
The appointment is on fixed terms (one-year temporary or two-year fixed-term basis) with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. The appointee will contribute to HKJCGHI research activities on infectious diseases and vaccines and will engage in capacity-building and knowledge translation activities in LMICs.
Application information
The University accepts online applications for the post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date CV. Review of applications will start on 5 August 2025 and continue until 14 October 2025, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
Advertised: Jul 23, 2025 (HK Time)
Applications close: Oct 14, 2025 (HK Time)
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