Senior Scientist, mRNA Vaccine Development

ROLE SUMMARY

We are looking for a Senior Scientist who will work on various aspects of mRNA production for the Upstream Development Group within Early Bioprocess Development at VRD in Pearl River, NY. The incumbent will work on current generation mRNA production, but also innovate, develop and optimize methods to further the state of the art in generating high quality mRNA. This development work will be pursued in the context of producing RNA both at lab scale and upwards. A strong, hands-on background in mRNA generation is required, including in vitro transcription, as well as in general molecular biology and biochemistry. There would be special interest in candidates with a strong biochemical, biophysical, and/or structural biology background in the context of mRNA. The incumbent would be joining a team of scientists well-versed in mRNA production, and would both lead and support efforts with the team.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• The primary responsibility would be to help innovate, develop and improve on current mRNA manufacture processes, from DNA generation, in vitro transcription, and mRNA capping
  
• The incumbent should have a strong understanding of mRNA biochemical and biophysical techniques and know how to implement these for process improvement
  
• In addition to the above, the ideal candidate would be familiar with an array of biochemical/biophysical techniques for mRNA macromolecular analysis, such as LC, MS, cGE, DLS, and various others
  
• Development and improvements will occur in the context of scaling up to gram scale mRNA production
  
• As well as working with the mRNA team, the incumbent will be working closely with several other teams within and outside of VRD.
  
• Data documentation will be performed in a timely and compliant manner, and data presentation will occur within the group, to project teams and at the departmental level.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or related discipline and 0-2 years experience
  
• Experienced in the design and execution of enzymatic reactions, especially in vitro transcription
  
• Proven molecular biology skills
  
• Expert command of basic analytical techniques such gel electrophoresis, fragment analyzer, ddPCR and LC
  
• Ability to design, organize and execute complex experiments
  
• Ability to plan experimental workflows for multiple experiments
  
• Ability to work independently
  
• Collaborates in a team environment
  
• Compiles, organizes and evaluates data
  
• Has experience in preparing making comprehensive presentations
  

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The ability to make aseptic transfers and perform the relevant laboratory functions.

Mental requirements are a detailed understanding of the scientific subject matter, an ability to make scientific judgments and an ability to perform complex data analysis.

OTHER JOB DETAILS

Eligible for Relocation Package

Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus

#LI-PFE

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Research and Development