Senior Scientist for the Virology Unit

Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the ideal candidate is found. The position is open to start as soon as possible. 

The Institut Pasteur du Cambodge (IPC) is a Cambodian non-for-profit research institution established in 1953, IPC is today a scientific research establishment declared of public utility placed under the high patronage of the Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia and under the responsibility of the Institute Pasteur on the scientific and technical levels. The IPC is a member of the Pasteur Network, which brings together 33 institutes present on five continents. It shares the Pasteurian values and the ethical charter to which the Pasteur Institutes are bound. The IPC has more than 250 employees, including about 30 expatriates of 22 nationalities and includes 5 research units. It carries out research activities in health biology, public health and service activities (Medical Biology Laboratory, vaccinations and water and food analyses) and training.

For over 25 years, the Virology Unit at IPC has been dedicated to biomedical research and surveillance, playing a crucial role in the prevention and control of viral diseases in Cambodia, Southeast Asia, and globally. The Unit’s activities focus on four key areas: (i) arboviruses (including dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis), (ii) respiratory viral infections (such as seasonal influenza, avian influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses), (ii) zoonotic and emerging pathogens (e.g., coronaviruses, hantavirus, Nipah virus, and other emerging viruses), as well as (iv) rabies and other viruses (including enteroviruses and hepatitis viruses). Additionally, the Unit hosts several national and international reference centers and laboratories. The Virology Unit’s vision is to become a leading center for research on endemic, emerging, and zoonotic viruses in Southeast Asia, contributing to national and global efforts to control and prevent these diseases. Through One Health surveillance, mechanistic research, and the development of new prophylactics and therapeutics, the Unit aims to enhance its impact on public and animal health, particularly in response to emerging and zoonotic viruses.

IPC is seeking an exceptional Senior Scientist to lead cutting-edge research within its Virology Unit. This position is funded by the unit for up to two years, with the expectation that the successful candidate will secure external funding through competitive grants to sustain their research program thereafter. The ideal candidate will have a strong record of scientific excellence and leadership, with expertise in viral research, particularly focused on endemic and emerging viruses and/or zoonotic viruses. A focus on veterinary and agricultural viruses is also an asset.

This role is designed for a very motivated, visionary scientist who can drive high-impact research projects, innovate in virology, and significantly contribute to the global scientific community. The candidate must demonstrate advanced expertise in virology, proven success in securing research funding, and a commitment to scientific leadership.

• Position: Full-time.
• Contract: An initial two-year funding guarantee from the unit. Continuation beyond this period is contingent upon securing external grant funding.
• Start Date: Available to start as soon as possible.
• Remote Work: Possibility to work remotely, subject to job role and management approval.
• Benefits:
• Private health insurance including family coverage and life insurance.
• NSSF (Health Care, Occupational Risk, Retirement).
• Khmer New Year and Pchum Ben Bonus.
• Annual leave plus an additional day every three years.
• Multicultural environment with staff from 22 nationalities.
• Opportunities for growth and career advancement.

• Scientific Leadership: Lead and direct high-impact research projects on endemic and emerging viruses and/or zoonotic viruses. A focus on veterinary and agricultural viruses is also an asset. Provide strategic direction to research efforts towards the overall vision of the Virology Unit.
• Research Development: Design and implement innovative research methodologies, ensuring that experimental designs are robust and yield meaningful results that can drive One Health interventions.
• Laboratory Expertise: Utilize advanced laboratory techniques in molecular biology, tissue culture, serology, and sequencing, potentially in a BSL3 level environment. Lead the development and optimization of protocols and ensure the highest standards of laboratory practice are maintained.
• Data Management: Oversee the analysis and interpretation of complex data sets, utilizing advanced statistical and computational tools to derive significant insights and guide decision-making processes.
• Collaboration & Networking: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with national and international partners, including scientific communities, public health authorities, and other stakeholders. Promote the exchange of knowledge and collaboration across research initiatives.
• Dissemination of Research: Ensure that research findings are effectively communicated through scientific publications, reports, and presentations. Advocate for research priorities that align with global and regional One Health needs.
• Field Work Coordination: Lead field missions in harsh environments to collect samples and data, ensuring that field teams are effectively managed and that research activities adhere to the highest ethical and safety standards.
• Mentorship & Supervision: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior scientists, students, technicians, and other team members. Oversee laboratory and field operations, ensuring the professional development of staff and the smooth execution of research projects.
• Staff Management & Capacity Building: Assist in the management and capacity building of the Virology Unit’s staff, focusing on enhancing technical skills, fostering professional growth, and ensuring continuous improvement in research capabilities. Develop and implement training programs, workshops, and other initiatives to build the expertise and competencies of the team.
• Funding & Resource Management: Identify funding opportunities, prepare grant proposals, and manage research budgets to secure the resources necessary for sustaining and expanding the Virology Unit’s research activities.

• Qualifications: Doctoral degree in Virology, Microbiology, or Infectiology (or related fields) completed, candidates who also have a pharmacist, medical, or veterinary degree will be highly appreciated.
• Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of postdoctoral experience with a proven track record of leadership in scientific research, particularly in virology or related fields.
• Laboratory Expertise: Extensive experience in molecular biology, tissue culture, serology, and sequencing, preferably in a BSL3 environment, with the ability to lead and innovate in these areas.
• Field Experience: Demonstrated ability to live and work in challenging environments, including fieldwork in remote or harsh conditions.
• Mentorship & Management: Proven track record of mentorship in the laboratory setting, with previous experience managing technicians and junior scientists. Ability to mentor and attract Masters, Ph.D., and postdoctoral trainees is ideal.
• Funding & Project Management: Demonstrated ability to attract and execute funded research projects, with proven experience in managing research budgets, including financial planning, resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
• Language: Very good English language skills required, French language skills desirable.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively disseminate complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
• Collaborative Approach: A team player with the ability to foster collaboration and build strong partnerships both internally and externally.
• Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing research landscapes and to lead teams through challenges in dynamic environments. Successful professional experience in a resource limited setting a plus.

The complete application includes a cover letter – with salary expectations, copies of diplomas if any, work certificates, curriculum vitae with a recent photo, Identity Card photocopy – all certified documents– are to be sent to the Human Resources department of Institut Pasteur du Cambodge #5, Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh or by email to: [email protected], phone number: +855 92 777 665.