Senior Scientist, Virology Unit

About the role

The Institut Pasteur du Cambodge (IPC) is seeking a Senior Scientist to lead high-impact research in its Virology Unit, which has spent 30 years researching and surveilling viral diseases such as arboviruses, respiratory viruses, zoonotic pathogens, rabies, enteroviruses and hepatitis viruses. The position is full-time, starts on 1 December 2026 and is initially funded by the unit for one year; continuation depends on securing external grant funding.

Key responsibilities

• Lead research on endemic, emerging and zoonotic viruses and set strategic priorities, with expertise in veterinary or agricultural viruses an asset
• Design and run innovative research approaches supporting One Health interventions
• Apply molecular biology, cell culture, serology and sequencing methods, including in a BSL-3 environment where relevant
• Analyse and interpret complex data sets with statistical and computational tools
• Build partnerships with national and international partners and disseminate results through publications, reports and conferences
• Lead field research in remote or challenging settings while meeting ethical, biosafety and quality requirements
• Mentor junior scientists, students and technicians
• Identify funding opportunities, write grant proposals, manage research budgets and comply with donor requirements

Required profile

• PhD or equivalent in virology, microbiology, infectious diseases or a related field; a medical, pharmaceutical or veterinary degree is an asset
• At least five years of postdoctoral experience with a strong record of scientific achievement and leadership
• Proven ability to secure and deliver funded projects and manage budgets, timelines and reporting
• Experience supervising technicians and junior scientists and mentoring Master's, PhD or postdoctoral researchers
• Excellent written and spoken English; French is desirable

Required skills

• Extensive experience in molecular biology, cell culture, serology and sequencing
• BSL-3 laboratory experience preferred
• Ability to conduct or supervise fieldwork in remote or resource-limited settings

What we offer

• Private health insurance including family coverage and life insurance
• NSSF coverage for health care, occupational risk and retirement
• Bonuses for Khmer New Year, Pchum Ben and end of year, annual leave and an expatriate package
• A multicultural workplace with opportunities for professional growth

Applications include a cover letter with salary expectations, diplomas, work certificates and a CV with a recent photo, sent to the Human Resources department of IPC in Phnom Penh. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.