Senior Scientist, Process Development - Pfizer
Groton, CT
About the Job
ROLE SUMMARY
We are seeking a creative, highly motivated chemist with biocatalysis experience to join our Chemical Research and Development (CRD) laboratories based in Groton, CT. The successful candidate will play a role in the development of innovative enzymatic processes to key precursors in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) candidates in our portfolio. They will also demonstrate a passion for the development of cutting edge biocatalysis technologies, in addition to having a proven track record of productivity in generating high-quality technical and scientific results.
CRD, as part of Pfizer Research and Development, is responsible for the development of synthetic processes and technology for the production of APIs. CRD scientists engage in all facets of development from small scale synthesis in support of medicinal chemistry programs, to the development of the commercial synthetic route. 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 join the Biocatalysis Center of Excellence (BCE) within the Process Chemistry group as a subject matter expert and laboratory-based experimentalist. They will provide screening and biocatalytic reaction optimization support for the development of innovative synthetic routes, workflows and processes. They will partner with chemists, analysts, biochemists and chemical engineers from across Pfizer R&D and manufacturing organizations to design novel enzyme platforms, participate in enzyme engineering programs and optimize enzymes to fit manufacturing process targets in terms of cost, robustness and quality. The ability to work on multi-disciplinary teams involving chemists, analysts, engineers, and technologists is essential.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Independently develop new enzymatic platforms, protocols and procedures, and evolves workflows that are compatible with process chemistry targets and keeping up with technology advances in Biocatalysis.
- Expert use of enzyme classes relevant to biocatalysis applications in Pharma, including enzyme screening, protein engineering, reaction kinetics, and scale up of enzymatic reactions.
- Independently perform scientific experiments with clear objectives and maintains high compliance in the use of electronic notebook to document all their research.
- Participate in brainstorming sessions towards proposing innovative enzymatic and organic reactions for API synthesis. Maintain contemporary knowledge of relevant primary literature in biocatalysis and synthetic chemistry.
- Responsible for coaching, mentoring, training, supervising, and developing staff when assigned; participate in recruiting when needed.
- As a strong team player, partner with chemists, analysts, and chemical engineers from across Pfizer R&D and manufacturing organizations to design novel enzyme processes.
- Prepares research reports and technical presentations and external publications.
QUAIFICATIONS
Required Education/Experience
- PhD in chemistry with 0-5 years' experience in the pharma industry
- Experience with applying biocatalysis in a laboratory setting; and familiar with the development of pharmaceutical processes using Biocatalysis
Desirable Technical Skills
- Subject matter expert in the use of a broad range of enzymes in organic chemistry and enzyme engineering.
- Working experience designing and optimizing biocatalytic reactions, high-throughput screening in multi-well plates and developing new enzyme platforms.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to work in a standard laboratory environment performing experiments in a laboratory fume hood. Ability to perform complex data analysis.
- Effective communication within a multidisciplinary team of colleagues.
- Self-aware: will seek input from others on ideas and problem-solving; uses others as a resource.
- Change agile: capable of quickly adapting to changes in project direction.
NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Will be required to occasionally travel domestically and/or internationally (0-5%) to support technology development and/or clinical manufacturing activities as well as technology transfer to commercial manufacturing.
Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $88,300.00 to $151,500.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 12.5% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life’s moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site – U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
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. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
Research and Development
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