We are seeking a Director, New Initiatives for 2-year-regular position (renewable) to work within the New Initiatives Department at the International Vaccine Institute in Seoul, Korea. (Duty station: Seoul, Korea)
Job Description
The purpose of this job is to support the strategic expansion of IVI's vaccine development portfolio in collaboration with internal and external collaborators. The scope of work includes overseeing grant proposals, investment cases, and complex interdepartmental projects across the full vaccine development value chain--spanning translational research, preclinical strategy, clinical development, regulatory planning, and policy engagement.
Key Roles & Responsibilities
* Lead the strategic assessment and framing of new opportunities with potential global health impact, including concept development, partner alignment, and investment case evaluation.
* Coordinate the scientific design and technical development of multi-partner proposals, in close collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders.
* Initiate translational research activities that advance IVI's vaccine programs from concept through development.
* Facilitate smooth handover of initiatives to operational teams (e.g., CARE, EPIC, Science), ensuring implementation readiness and effective knowledge transfer.
* Oversee the development and submission of major institutional proposals, technical reports, strategic presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.
* Represent IVI in high-level technical, policy, and funding engagements with global health agencies, national institutions, and multilateral funders.
* Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships to support IVI's vaccine development goals and external engagement priorities.
* Contribute to institutional positioning through global policy advocacy and alignment with R&D agendas.
* Serve as Project Technical Lead on complex initiatives if required by DG and supervisor.
* Provide scientific and medical guidance on emerging initiatives, working closely with leadership and external collaborators.
* Other tasks as mutually agreed with supervisor.
Job Requirements and Qualifications
1. Education Requirements
* MD, PhD in biomedical science field
2. Related Field Work Experience
* At least 20+ years in vaccine development (i.e., science, preclinical and clinical development) and grant preparation
3. Technical and Professional Skills / Knowledge
* In-depth knowledge of vaccine science, vaccine development and infection diseases
* Capacity to assess strategic and scientific value of new projects
* Management and communication skills in international settings
* Expertise in writing concept notes, grants, reports and publications
4. Key Competency
* Communication
* Planning & Organizing
* Commitment to Continuous Learning
5. Language Proficiency
* Fluent in English (spoken and written) and Korean (spoken and written)
For complete job description and to apply, visit:
https://www.ivi.int/director-new-initiatives-new-initiatives-department-based-in-seoul/
HOW TO APPLY:
[IMPORTANT] Please download and complete this Employment History template before submitting your application.
? Download Employment History Template (https://www.ivi.int/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Employment-History-Template_vupdated_2026.xlsx)
Applicants must complete the online application form including personal information, employment history, consent forms, and declaration statement. The Employment History Template must be downloaded, completed in Excel format, and uploaded with the application. For inquiries, contact the Recruitment Inquiries page (https://www.ivi.int/recruitment-inquiries/).