Justin O.

Justin O. has a diverse range of work experiences in the field of virus research and purification. Justin is currently working as a Principal Research Associate at IconOVir Bio, where they head the virus core team and is responsible for purifying and quality control of oncolytic adenoviruses for in vivo studies. Justin also performs process development to increase virus concentration.

Prior to their current role, Justin worked at Pfizer from 2016 to 2022. As a Senior Associate Scientist, they focused on purifying viruses for cancer vaccine and immunotherapy platforms. Justin verified the sequence of virus aliquots through transgene PCR and NGS, and confirmed sterility through endotoxin and bioburden testing. Before that, they worked as an Associate Scientist at Pfizer, where they purified live vaccinia viruses using various methods and buffers to improve recovery and reduce aggregates. Justin also developed large-scale purification processes for different flu virus strains and assisted in buffer screen tests to enhance solubility and remove aggregates.

Justin's earlier experience includes working as a Research Technician at The Scripps Research Institute from 2013 to 2016. In this role, they independently expressed and purified proteins for HIV vaccine research, troubleshooting AKTA system errors and maintaining columns. Justin also served as a Research Intern in the same institute, assisting in protein and antibody purification, maintaining cell lines, and preparing sterile buffers and media for AKTA machines and cell culture.

Before entering the research field, Justin worked briefly as a Cashier at Video Japan and as a Mover at Green Liner.

Justin O. completed their Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry/Chemistry at UC San Diego in 2014. Following this, they pursued a Master's degree in Bioinformatics at The Johns Hopkins University from 2020 to 2023.