Viral Immunology SME

Deliverables

Conduct expert scientific evaluation of influenza vaccines from BARDA partners, assessing immunogen design, adjuvant strategies, mechanisms of protection, scientific rationale for novel approaches, likelihood of achieving broadly protective immunity, adequacy of proposed immunological assays and correlates of protection, and translational potential from preclinical models to human efficacy. Design and critique clinical trial protocols with appropriate immunological endpoints (HAI, microneutralization, ADCC, T cell assays, mucosal immunity measures), age-appropriate cohorts, and seasonal versus pandemic preparedness strategies. Maintain current expertise in development challenges including immune imprinting and original antigenic sin, broadly neutralizing antibodies, immunosenescence in elderly populations, manufacturing scalability for pandemic response, and emerging approaches to broadly protective vaccines. Proactively identify and recommend evidence-based risk mitigation strategies. Monitor competitive landscape of influenza vaccine candidates in clinical and preclinical development, including novel platforms, and provide strategic intelligence on scientific differentiation and portfolio gaps. Demonstrate continuous engagement with the influenza research community through literature review and awareness of emerging data on influenza virus evolution, zoonotic threats, and pandemic preparedness. Support BARDA project management by providing subject matter expertise for program reviews, milestone assessments, and go/no-go decision points. Contribute to strategic planning and implementation of new initiatives, including identification of research gaps, innovative vaccine concepts worthy of investment, and alignment with national and global influenza surveillance and preparedness priorities.

Requirements

PhD., M.D., or equivalent in immunology, virology, microbiology, or related field with specialization in viral immunology. Postdoctoral training in influenza immunology strongly preferred. 10-15 years as principal investigator or senior scientist in influenza immunology research is preferred, evidenced by first or senior author publications on influenza immune responses, pathogenesis, or vaccine immunology. Experience with other respiratory viruses (RSV, SARS-CoV-2, human metapneumovirus, parainfluenza) is a plus. Hands-on vaccine/therapeutic product development experience and direct involvement in clinical studies (immunology lead role) highly desirable. Working knowledge of regulatory frameworks (FDA CBER, EMA CHMP), including immunogenicity data expectations, correlates of protection, regulatory submission requirements, and accelerated approval pathways, highly desirable. Demonstrated ability to translate immunological concepts into strategic recommendations for product development and public health decision-making. Track record of scientific leadership through invited presentations, advisory board service, grant review panels, and recognition as a thought leader in influenza immunology. Must be a United States Citizen or a Full Green Card holder. Tunnell strives to hire and retain the most qualified talent. We believe that having employees with different backgrounds and capabilities contributes to the success of our business. To attract qualified applicants, Tunnell posts to a wide variety of job sites. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Please be advised that certain client contracts may outline specific requirements for onsite work. Tunnell employees and/or contractors are expected to comply with all client requirements, including any safety and health protocols.