Institut Pasteur of Korea (IPK), a structure under the Korean Ministry of Science and Technology (MSICT), is seeking to recruit an expert in the immunology of emerging infectious diseases. Through his/her research programs the successful candidate will contribute to strengthen IPK's R&D and innovation capabilities (e.g. diagnostics, vaccines, therapeutic products, monoclonal antibodies). The successful candidate will be hired in the frame of the “Expert Technique International” (ETI) program funded by the French government under Expertise France.  

Research into infectious diseases and the development of antiviral and antimicrobial approaches including prophylactic and therapeutic measures, are key priorities at IPK. Our teams specialize in the fields of virology, immunology, bacteriology, parasitology, drug discovery and vaccine development. With the support of existing IPK teams and IPK technological platforms and through the development of international collaborations, the successful candidate will develop and optimize mRNA vaccines for the prevention of emerging infectious diseases notably those sensitive to climate change, thereby strengthening IPK capacity for epidemic preparedness. Utilizing our own novel mRNA modality alongside existing approaches will enhance IPK’s research capacity and expand the range of preventive and therapeutic solutions.

The expertise of a French Expert Technique International (ETI) researcher that could contribute to strengthening IPK scientific level while providing high-level technical expertise will be appreciated.

Main tasks and expected results:

_ Management of a research team focused on emerging infectious diseases, with expertise in mRNA vaccine development, production, and related delivery system innovation. We encourage candidates at different stages of their career to apply (PhD laureate with postdoctoral experience or more experienced team leader).

_ Raise funds, attract and supervise Korean or international students (possibility of a professorship at the Korea University of Science and Technology), postdoctoral fellows (possible scholarships with the Pasteur Network or Korean programs), engineers and research technicians. Writing scientific publications and patents, public presentation at national and international conferences.

_ Participate in the scientific and administrative life of IPK by writing reports, being a member of various internal committees of IPK, for example, the Ethics Committee, the Biosafety Committee, etc.

_ Develop intramural or external collaborations. Promote or coordinate grant applications for international projects with different IPK teams on concrete projects, in line with a "Preparedness" or "One Health" approach to ultimately increase the recognition and visibility of IPK.

_ As part of the programs developed by the Pasteur Network, special attention to the link between climate and health will be encouraged.

_ In coordination with the IPK CSO, another ETI, be the relay of the French Embassy for cooperation in the field of health and contribute to events organized by the scientific and academic sector. Welcome and advise visiting French and international researchers. Promote France as a destination and a partner of choice for Korean researchers.