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- Tasks: Lead innovative vaccine research and translate scientific discoveries into impactful solutions.
- Company: GSK, a global biopharma company with a mission to improve health worldwide.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, health benefits, and opportunities for hybrid work.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in global health while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: PhD in Immunology and strong leadership experience in R&D.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
At GSK, we have bold ambitions for patients, aiming to positively impact the health of 2.5 billion people by the end of the decade. Our R&D focuses on discovering and delivering vaccines and medicines, combining our understanding of the immune system with cutting-edge technology to transform people's lives. GSK fosters a culture ambitious for patients, accountable for impact, and committed to doing the right thing, making sure that we focus our efforts on accelerating significant assets that meet patients' needs and have the highest probability of success.
As the Head of Vaccines Translational Research, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our vaccine research and development efforts. You will lead a team of experts to translate scientific discoveries into impactful vaccine solutions, ensuring scientific excellence and innovation. This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on global health while fostering collaboration across diverse teams and disciplines.
Reporting to Sanjay Gurunathan, SVP & Global Head Vaccines and Infectious Diseases Research Unit, you will define and deliver the global strategic vision for Translational Research and drive operational excellence across the organisation. You will make decisions which positively influence GSK's scientific reputation, compliance status, and success of vaccines and infectious diseases portfolio.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead, coach and mentor a global team of approximately 15 experienced scientific leaders and technical experts to ensure quality and timely delivery and acceleration of clinical study data.
- Engage with senior R&D leaders and collaborate with global cross-functional teams, including Therapeutic Areas, Clinical Operations, Research Technologies, and other Development lines, to ensure the seamless integration of Translational Research in R&D success.
- Manage the strategic direction and operational execution of biomarker, immunogenicity, and bioanalytical lab assay development and sample testing.
- Provide oversight for clinical biomarker operations, lab operational study management and central lab activities to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency globally.
- Ensure global compliance with GCP, regulatory requirements, and industry standards for biomarker, immunogenicity, and bioanalytical research, biobank management, lab operational studies and central lab activities.
- Manage the global budget, resources, and infrastructure for the Translational Research team, optimizing allocation to meet strategic objectives.
Basic Qualifications:
- PhD in relevant scientific discipline e.g. Immunology.
- Demonstrated leadership skills in an R&D environment in vaccinology/immunology/infectious diseases.
- Strong expertise in translational research, including biomarker development and early-stage clinical studies.
- Proven leadership experience with a track record of strategic planning and execution.
- In-depth knowledge of GCP, regulatory requirements, and guidelines pertaining to biomarker and bioanalytical research, lab operational studies and central lab activities.
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address complex scientific, operational, and people challenges effectively.
This role can be based in the United States (Boston or Upper Providence), UK (London or Stevenage) or Italy (Sienna) or Belgium (Wavre) and will require on-site presence with opportunities for hybrid work arrangements.
Closing date for application: 26th January 2026.
VP, Head Translational Research, Vaccines & Infectious Diseases Research Unit in Stevenage employer: WISE Campaign
Contact Detail:
WISE Campaign Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land VP, Head Translational Research, Vaccines & Infectious Diseases Research Unit in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching GSK’s recent projects and innovations in vaccines and infectious diseases. We want you to show that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about their mission to improve global health.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of VP, Head Translational Research. We recommend rehearsing with a friend or mentor to get comfortable with your delivery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at GSK.
We think you need these skills to ace VP, Head Translational Research, Vaccines & Infectious Diseases Research Unit in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the role. Highlight your experience in translational research and how it aligns with our mission at GSK. We want to see how your skills can help us get ahead of disease together!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a VP, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Share examples of how you've led teams in R&D environments, especially in vaccinology or immunology. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and drive innovation!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to explain your achievements and experiences. We appreciate clarity as it reflects your communication skills, which are crucial for this role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that your application is processed correctly and gives you the best chance to join our ambitious team at GSK.
How to prepare for a job interview at WISE Campaign
✨Know Your Science
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the latest advancements in immunology and vaccine research. Brush up on key studies and breakthroughs that relate to GSK's work, as this will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in R&D environments. Highlight specific instances where your leadership directly contributed to project success or innovation, as this role requires strong leadership skills.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with GSK's mission and how their R&D strategy aligns with global health needs. Be ready to discuss how your vision for translational research can contribute to their goal of impacting 2.5 billion lives by the end of the decade.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves working with diverse teams, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated across different functions. Be prepared to discuss how you can bridge gaps between research and development to drive innovation.
