Senior Associate Scientist, DNA-Encoded Libraries and In Vitro Pharmacology

ROLE SUMMARY

The Primary Pharmacology Group at our Groton campus is composed of ~50 scientists that support hit identification and lead optimization activities for small molecule drug discovery programs through the design, development, and execution of in vitro plate-based screening assays. Research Units supported by the group include Inflammation and Immunology, Cardiovascular/Metabolic, Rare Diseases, Oncology and our Center for Therapeutic Innovation. We typically drive small molecule programs from initiation through clinical candidate selection.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary lab that, in addition to our core Pharmacology deliverables, is also applying cutting-edge DNA-Encoded Library (DEL) technology to discover starting points for small molecule projects. As a primary responsibility, (s)he will collaboratively partner with lab members to deliver hit identification efforts with DEL. In addition, (s)he will also provide pharmacology screening support for small molecule programs.

Applicants must be excited by new technology, have experience working independently in a laboratory setting, and experience in a team-based scientific work environment. Previous experience in 1 or more of the following is required: plate-based pharmacology, analytical (bio)chemistry, chemical biology, cell biology, biochemistry, enzymology, drug discovery, laboratory automation, DNA encoded library selection. Also critical to the role is a comfort in rapidly becoming proficient with new technologies, equipment and software (e.g. screening techniques and equipment, ActivityBase, GraphPad Prism, Spotfire).

The successful candidate will be excited by working in teams with multiple partners (e.g. Bioanalysis, Chemistry, Research Unit Biology, Structural Biology, and CROs). The candidate should therefore possess strong collaborative, written and verbal communication skills; and be adept at building partnerships. Key to the role is an ability to work with a growing degree of autonomy and the timely delivery of high quality data with a thoughtful interpretation. As such, in addition to technical skills, (s)he should demonstrate a personal drive, leadership potential, flexibility/resiliency, and a good sense of humor.

At Pfizer, we believe in helping people lead healthier lives - from our customers to our colleagues. We offer a wide array of programs and plans that give our colleagues the flexibility and tools they need to get and stay healthy, both physically and financially. These include competitive compensation, generous medical, vacation and retirement benefits plus additional programs.

The Assay Development and Pharmacology group offers a collegial and supportive environment for colleagues, with a culture encouraging openness, innovation and ownership of our science. We aim to provide scientific and growth opportunities for personal and career development commensurate with a colleague's goals and experience.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• The scientist will conduct DNA-encoded library campaigns that apply affinity selection, qPCR analysis, SDS-PAGE, and PCR.(S)he will be expected to learn how to prepare samples for Next-Gen Sequencing.
• With guidance from the supervisor and laboratory members, the scientist will design, optimize and perform in vitro assays to drive lead identification and SAR optimization using a combination of biochemical, target-based, and physiologically relevant assay systems. (S)he will carry out data analysis as well as review and interpret this data for project teams.
• This scientist will have the opportunity to apply cutting-edge technologies to deliver the needs of their projects, is expected to have a drive for personal growth and leadership potential.
• This scientist will work with an interdisciplinary team of Research Unit biologists, medicinal chemists, structural biologists and biophysicists, as well as external partners to deliver on the portfolio.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• BS or equivalent with 3+ years of experience relevant to drug discovery in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, and/or pharmacology.
• Demonstrated experience executing vitro assay formats including data analysis (examples: LC-MS, HPLC, FRET, FACS, FP, ELISA, high content imaging, FLIPR, radioligand binding, etc.)
• Practical experience with gel-based techniques
• A commitment to timely delivery and quality of the work product, overcoming obstacles in a fast-paced environment and a continuous improvement mind-set.
• Demonstration of excellent computer, verbal and written communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with laboratory automation, assay troubleshooting and cell culture.
• Hands-on molecular biology experience (PCR), familiarity with qPCR or Next Gen Sequencing sample preparation is a plus.
• Previous experience with one or more target classes in a drug discovery setting (e.g. GPCRs, transporters, kinases, ion channels)
• An ability to forge strong collaborative relationships inside organizational walls
• A comfort with script-based data analysis and handling large datasets on platforms beyond Microsoft Excel

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Sitting, standing, lifting, bending, and walking.
• Ability to perform practical laboratory bench work and work on a computer (while standing or sitting).
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and interpret data.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Candidate may periodically be asked to travel to the Pfizer Cambridge, MA and Pearl River, NY sites to meet project team members (2-4 times per year).
• Candidate must comply with laboratory safety practices and wear personal protection as required.

OTHER INFORMATION

• Eligible for Relocation Package
• Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus

Work Location Assignment:On Premise

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Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

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Pfizer requires all U.S. new hires to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the first date of employment. As required by applicable law, Pfizer will consider requests for Reasonable Accommodations.

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EEO & Employment Eligibility

Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer.

Research and Development