Lawrence (Larry) Wolfraim, Ph.D.
About Lawrence (Larry) Wolfraim, Ph.D.
Lawrence (Larry) Wolfraim, Ph.D., serves as the Chief of the Biodefense Vaccines and Other Biological Products Development Section at the National Institutes of Health. He has extensive experience in vaccine development, cellular immunology, and program management, with a career spanning over three decades in various prestigious research institutions.
Current Role at National Institutes of Health
Lawrence Wolfraim, Ph.D., serves as the Chief of the Biodefense Vaccines and Other Biological Products Development Section at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He has held this position since 2021, working in Bethesda, Maryland. In this role, he leads efforts in the development of vaccines and biological products aimed at biodefense, leveraging his extensive background in immunology and vaccine development.
Previous Experience in Research and Academia
Wolfraim has a diverse background in research and academia, having worked in various prestigious institutions. He was a Postdoctoral Fellow at Philipps University of Marburg in Germany from 1994 to 1996. He continued his postdoctoral work at Washington University School of Medicine from 1996 to 1998. Additionally, he served as a Research Fellow at the National Cancer Institute for six months in 2003 and as a Visiting Fellow there from 1998 to 2003.
Educational Background in Biology
Wolfraim earned his Ph.D. in Biology from McGill University, where he studied from 1985 to 1993. Prior to that, he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Toronto Mississauga, studying from 1981 to 1985. His educational background has provided a strong foundation for his career in biomedical research and development.
Expertise in Biodefense and Vaccine Development
Wolfraim possesses significant expertise in various areas related to biodefense and vaccine development. He has over ten years of experience as a technical programmatic lead on large U.S. government-funded biodefense vaccine development contracts. His areas of specialization include cellular immunology, immunoassay development, molecular biology, oncology, and cell and gene therapy.
Mentorship and Leadership Style
Wolfraim is recognized for his dedication to mentoring and coaching junior colleagues. He employs an inclusive and empowering management style, emphasizing the importance of clear communication to secure buy-in from clients and stakeholders. His approach fosters a collaborative environment that supports the professional development of his team members.