Scientist: Molecular Testing

ROLE SUMMARY

The primary purpose of this job role is to function as a senior member of the High-throughput Clinical Immunoassays & Diagnostics team within Pfizer Vaccine Research and Development (VRD). The candidate will have experience with molecular biology techniques for DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, sequencing, and application of molecular techniques for biological analysis and perform lab-based development and validation of molecular diagnostics assays for testing vaccine products. In addition, the candidate will perform robotic and manual assay clinical testing and manage direct reports.  The candidate will work in a team setting, be expected to work efficiently with cross-functional teams and will share roles and responsibilities as assigned by the team leader/manager.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• The candidate will perform job responsibilities and maintain lab records in compliance with cGMP/GLP and all other regulatory agency requirements.
• Authors and edits Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Deviation Technical Notes (DTNs), Vaccine Technical Notes (VTNs), Planned Deviation Notes (PDNs), and Laboratory Deviation Reports (LDRs)
• Implements new methods and equipment based on manufacturer’s instructions
• Develops and validates PCR assays for detection of pathogens from clinical samples including blood, nasal swabs, and other pertinent samples 
• Performs routine robotic and manual assay runs and processes (eg. sample preps, extractions)
• Applies new cutting-edge technologies to improve throughput for in process testing and enhance capability of product biological characterization
• Uses own scientific judgement to apply and adapt standard methods and techniques by applying prior work experience
• The candidate will be responsible for freezer and other equipment management including change control requests and overseeing the maintenance schedules for HCID equipment.
• Ensures that laboratory instruments are in good working order according to departmental SOPs
• Supports method transfers to other groups and external partners
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-motivation and ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Possess the ability to multi-task and align priorities with program objectives
• Solid decision-making skills and the ability to resolve moderately complex problems
• Ability to work in a fast paced, rapidly changing environment
• Manage direct reports

QUALIFICATIONS

• BS Degree in biological science, biochemistry, or molecular biology with 4+ years of research experience
• 2+ years of experience in molecular biology (PCR and NGS)
• 2+ years of experience managing direct reports
• Strong assay development skills
• Documentation skills including generation of high-quality protocols, reports, and documents for regulatory submissions and maintaining laboratory findings in an electronic notebook
• Experience with molecular data analysis using specialized software and basic bioinformatics, and familiarity with concepts in statistics
• Ability to effectively manage, organize, and prioritize multiple projects, effectively communicate results to project team, and meet deadlines
• Experience with laboratory automation and Hamilton robotics a plus
• Proficient in Microsoft applications including Word Processing, Excel, PowerPoint
• Strong interpersonal skills and coordination ability
• Prior managerial experience is a plus
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Resourcefulness

• Positive attitude

• Ability to perform complex data analysis

• Work in a BSL-2 lab using a Biological Safety Cabinet and laptop computers

• Manual pipetting

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

Occasional late night or weekend hours required

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

Pfizer reports payments and other transfers of value to health care providers as required by federal and state transparency laws and implementing regulations.  These laws and regulations require Pfizer to provide government agencies with information such as a health care provider’s name, address and the type of payments or other value received, generally for public disclosure.  Subject to further legal review and statutory or regulatory clarification, which Pfizer intends to pursue, reimbursement of recruiting expenses for licensed physicians may constitute a reportable transfer of value under the federal transparency law commonly known as the Sunshine Act.  Therefore, if you are a licensed physician who incurs recruiting expenses as a result of interviewing with Pfizer that we pay or reimburse, your name, address and the amount of payments made currently will be reported to the government.  If you have questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact your Talent Acquisition representative.

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