Chief, Virology Branch
Open Date
October 28, 2024
Close Date
November 26, 2024
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), one of the largest institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), conducts and supports a global program of research to better understand treat, and ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases.

The Virology Branch (VB) within the Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (DMID), NIAID, seeks an exceptional and visionary leader to serve as chief of VB.

As part of its comprehensive extramural portfolio, VB supports research on a wide range of infectious diseases, including chronic diseases caused by hepatic viruses and the herpes simplex virus; diseases that are devastating to newborns, such as Zika and cytomegalovirus infections; and acute viral diseases with very high fatality rates such as rabies, yellow fever, and Ebola.

The chief of VB directs and manages a complex scientific program that stimulates basic, translational, and clinical research and advances product development for viral infectious diseases of national and international prominence. The incumbent serves as a science program leader in a Tier 2 position and reports to the DMID director.

The chief leads research to control and prevent infectious diseases caused by viruses other than HIV. The chief focuses on understanding the fundamental biology and pathogenesis and developing medical countermeasures for over 200 different viruses comprising over 20 viral families that impact human health, including but not limited to viral pathogens of pandemic concern.

The chief exercises broad influence on scientific programs aligned with United States and global health priorities and develops and articulates scientific priorities in concert with NIH and HHS goals and the context of broader public health goals. Leadership and supervision involve the strategic management of significant resources and the integration of portfolios that involve a broad range of viral infectious diseases, including potential pandemic threats.

Qualifications

Required

M.D. or Ph.D. in a biomedical science
Demonstrated skills in the following areas:
Independent and collaborative work in planning, organizing, and conducting basic and translational research in viral diseases
Successful management of a multifaceted research portfolio
Effective interactions across multiple sectors of government, industry, and academia
Competitive candidates will be widely respected by their peers for their scientific, managerial, or executive accomplishments and expertise.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following to the NIH Specialized Scientific Jobs portal by November 26, 2024:

Curriculum vitae
Bibliography
A three-page statement explaining their vision for viral diseases research, reasons for being interested in this position, and specific leadership skills and experience they would bring to NIAID
A statement describing their experience mentoring and promoting a diverse workforce
In addition, up to three letters of professional reference may be required as the recruitment process progresses.

For additional information or questions about the position, email NIAIDExecutiveServices@mail.nih.gov.

All information applicants provide will remain confidential and be reviewed only by authorized officials associated with the recruitment. The successful candidate will be appointed under the Title 42(f) hiring authority at a salary commensurate with their experience. A full civil service package of benefits (including retirement; health and life insurance; annual and sick leave; and a Thrift Savings Plan [401K equivalent]) is also available. Relocation expense allowances are authorized and may be paid in accordance with agency policy. If relocation expense allowances are paid, employees will be required to sign a one-year service agreement.

HHS, NIH, and NIAID are equal opportunity employers dedicated to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community through its training and employment programs.