The Program Officer will lead, execute and contribute to investments that support translational research and preclinical development of primarily universal influenza vaccine candidates, as well as other vaccines across the Pneumonia portfolio. You will bring translational-research and pre-clinical research experience for new influenza and other viral vaccines. They will have responsibility for translational-research activities and input to support creative vaccine strategies, from research to proof of concept. The scope of work will primarily focus on universal influenza candidates but may also include other pathogens in the Pneumonia portfolio. This role will lead internal and external partnerships, which requires the willingness and ability to dive into the details and see the "big picture".
- Design, plan, and lead a portfolio of grants to conduct translational research of influenza and other vaccines candidates.
- Collaborate with initiatives leads and PST leadership on technical and operational aspects of product development.
- Cultivate partners to build coalitions and collaborations to achieve programmatic objectives.
- Review submitted concept notes and grant proposals; provide clear, concise and insightful written analyses and recommendations for funding, including drafting and editing proposal summaries and progress reports for existing grants for review by foundation leadership.
- Consult with grantees to achieve desired impact of grants; conduct site visits, provide technical mentorship, convene meetings, and apply and evaluate milestone-based performance objectives.
- Prepare and write briefs and synthesize existing literature. Provide written analysis and recommendations about key topics of relevance to the Pneumonia team.
- This role is responsible for high quality interactions and clear and consistent communications internally and externally, including grantees and all levels of partners and stakeholders in the field.
- MPH or public health experience, particularly in low and middle-income countries, is desirable
- Strong background in leading translational-research projects for creative viral vaccines preferred.
- Strong knowledge with process development, preclinical studies, and regulatory highly preferred
- Excellence in scientific writing and data analysis, written and oral communication skills, and experience advocating and communicating with a broad and diverse audience.
- Proven effectiveness as a teammate and collaborator in complex, multicultural and matrixed organizations and partnerships.
- Field experience, scientific collaborations and network in target geographies (Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia) preferred.
- Experience working with multiple partners, including government, other donors, grantees to build a common vision and visualize simple and effective but implementable solutions to complex problems.
- Comfortable in a wide range of cultural, geographic and operational situations, demonstrating culturally sensitive behavior with a diverse range of people.
- Deep understanding of crafting and handling sustainable and scalable ventures.
- Effective as a collaborator in complex internal and external organizations.
- Extensive project contribution and management experience.
- Works with efficiency and tact.