Senior Scientist (R4)

A Senior Scientist (R4) position is available in the Downstream Process Development group within Bioprocess R&D at Pfizer in Bothell, Washington.

The successful candidate will have strong laboratory research experience and a desire to remain in a hands-on, laboratory-focused role. This position will be part of a multidisciplinary team of scientists across multiple sites focused on the development and optimization of recovery and purification processes for recombinant proteins expressed in mammalian cell culture, supporting early- and late-phase clinical programs.

The Senior Scientist will work collaboratively to develop robust, efficient, and scalable downstream strategies to improve process performance and enable successful technology transfer.

Role Responsibilities

• Design and execute small-scale downstream process development studies, with support for pilot-scale and manufacturing purification activities.
• Analyze experimental data to develop, test, and refine hypotheses that improve the fundamental understanding of recovery and purification processes.
• Contribute to process characterization, validation strategies, Quality by Design (QbD) approaches, and regulatory filings.
• Author internally reviewed technical reports, present scientific results to cross-functional teams and management, and publish externally as appropriate.
• Identify and implement opportunities for operational efficiency and continuous improvement across Bioprocess R&D workflows.
• Support change initiatives related to business infrastructure, platforms, and technologies to enable pipeline, legacy, and innovation programs.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with 8+ years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree with 6+ years of relevant experience, or PhD with 0–3 years of experience
• Degrees should be in a biological or engineering discipline (e.g., Biotechnology, Chemistry/Biochemistry, Chemical or Biochemical Engineering, or equivalent).

Experience/Skills

• Hands-on experience in recombinant protein downstream process development, technology transfer, and/or bioprocess manufacturing.
• Strong understanding of protein chemistry and protein analytics, with demonstrated ability to apply current scientific literature.
• Proven ability to independently drive experimental work, deliver results, and contribute innovative solutions within project teams.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively in a matrix environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical documentation and presentations.
• Strong analytical, data interpretation, and computer skills.
• Ability to manage personal workload effectively and contribute to planning of people and technology resources within project teams.
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem-solving and enhance productivity.
• Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with recovery and purification of recombinant proteins from mammalian and microbial or yeast expression systems.
• Experience transferring biologics processes to pilot-scale or commercial manufacturing, including familiarity with data acquisition and process control systems.
• Experience supporting late-stage development, process validation, and commercialization activities.
• Working knowledge of statistical experimental design and data analysis.
• Broad understanding of the biologics drug development process and requirements for advancing candidates through clinical development.

Benefits

• Comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help colleagues lead healthy lives and support each of life's moments.
• 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.
• Health benefits, including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

Salary

• The annual base salary for this position ranges from $93,600.00 to $156,000.00.
• Eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 12.5% of the base salary.
• Eligible to participate in our share-based long-term incentive program.