Senior Principal Scientist Molecular Discovery

Pfizer’s Biotherapeutic Discovery group in Cambridge is seeking an outstanding, highly motivated scientist with strong background in molecular biology, protein expression and protein biology/structure, to join a multidisciplinary team responsible for supporting the discovery, characterization, and refinement of therapeutic proteins. This Principal Scientist will collaborate with therapeutic project leaders across various Disease Areas to understand the target biology and design custom drug target-related DNA, RNA, protein and cell-based reagents.  The candidate will have access to state-of-the-art technologies and will be expected to continue our tradition of developing world class methods and technologies that enhance our therapeutic discovery efforts.

Job Responsibilities: 

• Serve as liaison between the Target Protein Sciences (TPS) group and project teams to advise on best approaches for design and production of critical reagents for therapeutic protein discovery and characterization.
• Provide strategic direction and implement innovative approaches across multiple modalities.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the underlying biology and mechanisms of action for a variety of drug targets.
• Direct the creation of diverse expression constructs for production in a variety of hosts as necessary, and coordinate with TPS expression and purification groups for optimal production and characterization.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS 
• Ph.D. in Biological Science (Molecular Biology, Structural Biology, Protein Biochemistry, Cell Biology) or a related field, at least 8 years of post-graduate experience and proven experience in recombinant protein design, protein engineering and production in biotech or biopharmaceutical industry is required.
• Strong familiarity with recombinant protein expression in various prokaryotic and eukaryotic hosts, and protein purification methods.
• Experience and knowledge of gene expression and regulation in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
• Strong track record of scientific accomplishments demonstrated through publications in highly regarded journals and/or intellectual property generation.
• An innovator with a proven track record in molecular design of recombinant proteins and cell lines, a creative and proactive approach to problem solving, strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• A highly collaborative scientist with broad interests and a diverse background. An ability to work across disciplines and understand the specific needs of collaborators.
• Strategic thinking with an ability to understand program and therapeutic area needs and translate that understanding into an actionable approach.
• Outstanding interpersonal, collaborative and oral communication skills.
• Strong motivation, passion and commitment to science and engineering of large-molecule therapeutics
• Ability to critically analyze and interpret work published in the field and apply it appropriately.
• Strong time management skills and ability to manage multiple projects in parallel.
• Strong communication skills and ability to present research in a team setting.
• The individual should be scientifically creative and driven by a willingness to embrace innovation within drug discovery and an eagerness to challenge and meet aggressive timelines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven managerial skills and success in mentoring and managing a group of scientists with diverse expertise and levels of experience, providing decisive prioritization and communicating project needs transparently.
• Demonstrate a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.
• Knowledge of structural biology methods and requirements for protein reagents

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.

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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