Senior Scientist

ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking a synthetic organic chemist to join the Process Chemistry group within Chemical Research and Development (CRD) in Groton, CT. CRD, part of Preclinical and Translational Sciences within Pfizer R&D, is responsible for the development of process technology to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This work includes the synthesis of diverse chemical entities that support both traditional small molecules and emerging therapeutic modalities, including peptides, lipids and other complex synthetic molecules.

CRD scientists engage in all facets of development from small scale synthesis in support of discovery programs, to the development of the commercial synthetic routes. CRD scientists partner with manufacturing specialists for API synthesis in kilo-lab and pilot plant facilities, as well as provide support for technology transfer to Pfizer manufacturing sites and third‑party facilities. The successful candidate will design, enable and develop scalable processes to pharmaceutical drug candidates, applying innovative chemistries, new technologies and statistical experimental design approaches in a laboratory setting.

The ability to work on and lead multi‑disciplinary teams involving chemists, analysts, engineers, and technologists, and to represent CRD on cross‑functional teams is essential.

The successful candidate will identify and utilize innovative approaches to develop robust synthetic routes for the preparation of drug candidates, including traditional small‑molecules, peptides, lipids, and other complex synthetic modalities. This position requires laboratory experimentation, participation in multi‑disciplinary project teams, and collaboration with scientists from Analytical R&D and other disciplines, such as engineering, to further develop synthetic routes into scalable processes.

Interpretation of analytical data to drive synthetic experimental plans and the ability to utilize electronic tools, such as an electronic notebook, to document information are required. The candidate is expected to continuously develop and apply new scientific and technical skills. The successful candidate will also participate in the preparation of technical transfer documents for manufacture internally or at third parties.

Compliance with safety and regulatory requirements is expected and documented through our internal training program. The successful candidate will participate in key initiatives for CRD and contribute to continuous improvement work in the department and advancement of the process chemistry discipline through technology, workflow, or business impact.

PhD. in Organic Chemistry (or within 9 months of completing Ph.D. program). No industrial experience required. State of the art knowledge of modern synthetic methodology, including aspects of asymmetric synthesis, green chemistry, catalysis and physical organic chemistry as it relates to reaction mechanism is expected. The ability to employ analytical tools, computational and statistical methodology, and automated laboratory technologies to enhance process development efficiency is desirable.

Excellent written and oral communication skills, the ability to effectively influence the work of others and a general knowledge of drug development and the pharmaceutical industry are key. Prior experience with peptide and lipid synthesis is highly valued, particularly hands‑on experience with route development, scale‑up, purification strategies, and cross‑functional collaboration in support of pharmaceutical research and development, though it is not required.

Laboratory work requires standing. Working at a computer. Ability to use sound scientific…