July 31, 2018 Charles J. Link, Jr. Chief Executive Officer NewLink Genetics Corporation 2503 South Loop Drive Ames, IA 50010 Re: NewLink Genetics Corporation Registration Statement on Form S-3 Filed July 26, 2018 File No. 333-226366 Dear Mr. Link: This is to advise you that we have not reviewed and will not review your registration statement. Please refer to Rules 460 and 461 regarding requests for acceleration. We remind you that the company and its management are responsible for the accuracy and adequacy of their disclosures, notwithstanding any review, comments, action or absence of action by the staff. Please contact Ada D. Sarmento at 202-551-3798 with any questions. Division of Corporation Finance Office of Healthcare & Insurance cc: James C.T. Linfield, Esq.