Senior Associate Scientist, -throughput Molecular Biologist

Senior Associate Scientist, High-throughput Molecular Biologist

We’re in relentless pursuit of breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. We innovate every day to make the world a healthier place.

To fully realize Pfizer’s purpose – Breakthroughs that change patients’ lives – we have established a clear set of expectations regarding “what” we need to achieve for patients and “how” we will go about achieving those goals.

Pfizer Research & Development serves as the beating heart of Pfizer's trailblazing product pipeline, the essence of our mission to bring life‑changing medicines to the world.

Pfizer offers competitive compensation and benefits programs designed to meet the diverse needs of our colleagues.

What You Will Achieve

The High-throughput Screening (HTS) team is looking for a highly motivated molecular biology expert to support development and evaluation of vaccine candidates. In this position, you will apply strong molecular biology expertise to perform cell-based expression assays and automated screening workflows in a BSL-2 laboratory environment. You will help expand high‑throughput capabilities by collaborating with automation specialists, generating high‑quality experimental data, and supporting the design, cloning, and validation of vaccine constructs.

Through close collaboration with your teammates and cross‑functional teams, your efforts will help ensure timely, data‑driven advancement of vaccine programs in a dynamic and collaborative setting.

How You Will Achieve It

• Perform RNA synthesis, characterization, and analytical assessments to support preclinical evaluation of vaccine candidates
• Design, execute, and troubleshoot cell‑based assays to evaluate in vitro expression of vaccine candidates
• Support the development of Hamilton STAR methods in collaboration with automation experts, translating manual molecular biology workflows into automation‑compatible, high‑throughput screening methods
• Operate Hamilton STAR liquid handling platforms to execute automated workflows that enable efficient screening of vaccine candidates
• Independently collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental data, ensuring accuracy, reproducibility, and scientific rigor
• Communicate experimental results and progress updates to team members and senior leadership in a clear and timely manner
• Maintain accurate and well‑organized inventories of reagents and biological samples to support high‑throughput operations
• Ensure high‑quality documentation and reporting in accordance with SOPs and Pfizer Laboratory Notebook Policy requirements

Qualifications

Must‑Have

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology)
• 3 to 5 years of experience in an academic or biopharmaceutical research environment OR Masters degree with 0 to 3 years of experience
• Demonstrated proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including in vitro transcription, RNA analysis, and cell‑based assays
• Hands‑on experience working with mammalian cell culture systems and applying aseptic techniques in a laboratory setting
• Ability to independently design, execute, and analyze experiments, with confidence presenting and explaining data outcomes
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality and documentation standards
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced, team‑oriented environment
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, with strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in scientific computing and documentation tools, including Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Graph Pad Prism

Nice‑to‑Have

• Experience operating and/or supporting Hamilton STAR automation platforms, including method execution or development
• Experience operating or troubleshooting automation instruments such as King Fisher Apex
• Hands‑on experience with molecular cloning and sequencing analysis
• Familiarity with LIMS, Gene Data, or similar data management platforms

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Work is primarily performed at the laboratory bench and at an office desk using a computer.
• The job involves lifting light loads, not more than 10 pounds. This position may require the ability to stand and reach…