RNA Accelerator Postdoctoral Fellow RNA Delivery

ROLE SUMMARY

Pfizer’s Emerging Science and Innovation Unit (ES&I) RNA Accelerator was recently established to further the therapeutic potential of Pfizer’s mRNA/Lipid Nanoparticle platform. The RNA Accelerator team works closely with ES&I groups Target Sciences (TS) and Centers for Therapeutic Innovation (CTI) in collaboration with Pfizer’s research units, academic labs, and early-stage biotech companies to advance enabling RNA technology and therapeutic programs.  Pfizer is assembling a cross-disciplinary group of Post-Doctoral Fellows across the research units to explore the intersection of RNA biology and technology with therapeutic approaches in the integrated space of cellular reprogramming, mRNA, epigenetics, gene editing, immunology/inflammation and oncology. This is a unique opportunity for driven, exceptional PhD-level scientists to leverage their expertise and develop their scientific acumen & drug discovery skills while collaborating with multidisciplinary research teams at Pfizer and academic subject-matter experts.

The Post-Doctoral Fellow will be based with the ES&I TS and CTI groups in Cambridge, MA. They will work collaboratively with formulation, analytical and biology teams to further our understanding of the mechanisms of targeted delivery of RNA. While performing independent, cutting-edge research, the Post-Doctoral Fellow will join forces with experienced drug hunters, colleagues focusing on target identification and validation, hit discovery, as well as pre-clinical animal studies and safety, with the goal of making clinically-relevant, groundbreaking discoveries and publishing in high-impact journals.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate deep scientific and technical expertise harnessed to advance our understanding around how cellular lineage impacts immunological and other responses to RNA medicines to ultimate improve and refine RNA modalities.
• Independently design and test biological hypotheses, while also leveraging the breadth of expertise available from other Postdoctoral Fellows and subject matter experts across Pfizer and the external academic collaborative network.
• Execute targeted in vitro and in vivo experiments, while leveraging state of the art technologies and resources to address fundamental questions regarding cancer drug resistance mechanisms that can uncover novel therapeutic angles in this space.
• Generate, organize, analyze, interpret data, and identify areas where key knowledge is lacking. Proactively seek new scientific leads via genetics & AI-based resources, literature, conferences and key opinion leaders with the goal of refining scientific hypothesis and expediting experimental plans.
• Effectively communicate results at internal and external events and proactively contribute to the continued scientific growth at Pfizer.
• Contribute to a culture that embraces scientific excellence, effectiveness, and team-work.

QUALIFICATIONS

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Recent Ph.D. in molecular and cell biology, RNA biology or biochemistry, or a related field, with a strong track record of scientific publications.
• Significant expertise with an array of molecular and cell biological techniques and quantitative assays, including QPCR/Nanostring, MSD, mRNA IVT, advanced cellular imaging techniques, primary cell tissue culture, receptor binding and internalization assays, bioanalytical assay development, and bioinformatics analysis. 
• Must have excellent organizational and planning skills, and the motivation and ability to work in a fast-paced environment independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to quickly master new concepts and techniques.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Direct experience with methods and analysis of mRNA delivery, and in vivo studies is advantageous.

OTHER JOB DETAILS

Eligible for Relocation Assistance

Must Have Work Authorization in US

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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.

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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