Principal Scientist, RNA Cell Biology

ROLE SUMMARY

The primary role of the position is to contribute to the RNA Platform improvements for the viral vaccine programs. The candidate will work closely with the viral vaccine director to develop and apply interdisciplinary approaches to understand the mechanisms of action of different types of RNA-based viral vaccine drug substance and lipid nanoparticle drug products.  

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the multi-step design, planning and execution of experiments to characterize the RNAs and their formulations for in vitro studies
• Develop, establish, and execute single molecule approaches to investigate patterns of intra-cellular trafficking and localization of RNA including organelle retention of RNA and spatial RNA polarization, and their impact on translation in mammalian primary cells and established cell lines.
• Partner with director to contribute to scientific discussions and strategic internal/external collaborations aimed at advancing the RNA Platform 
• Mentor junior scientists’ research activities and provide technical guidance when necessary

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate would have some or all the following skills and attributes:

• Strong foundation in RNA biology
• Comprehensive knowledge and hands on experience with confocal microscopy-based single molecule Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (smFISH) and Immunofluorescence assays
• Hands on experience with cell culture (primary immune cells and established cell lines) and the utilization of cell-based assays to characterize RNA-based products (e.g., Flow cytometry, ELISA/MSD/ELLA, RT-qPCR, Luminescence)
• Strategic agility, strong critical and logical thinking with ability to analyze problems 
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic, cross-functional matrix environment 
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and collaborative skills, attentive to detail, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic matrix and fast-paced environment 
• PhD in biology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular cell biology or a related field
• 3+ years relevant industry experience in pre-clinical research and in vaccine technical development

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• RNA secondary structure and RNA folding characterization and mRNA stability analysis 
• Analysis of translation through polysome profiling and/or ribosome profiling 
• Data analysis of NGS-based technologies (RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, scRNA-Seq, Long-Read sequencing, etc.) are preferred  
• Experience with managing a small team

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Candidate will interact with manager and group members on a regular basis and functional lines within Vaccines R & D (VRD) as required.  Will also interact with scientists from other parts of Pfizer to advance viral programs and may work with collaborators from external partners.

SUPERVISION

• May directly manage one or more direct reports
• May be required to train colleagues on procedures and techniques needed to support RNA Platform improvements

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Strong abilities in scientific analysis, cross-functional collaboration, people management, scientific writing, and public speaking required.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

N/A

Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise

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

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.

Sunshine Act

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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