Description
Pfizer is seeking an Associate Scientist to contribute to the design, development, and optimization of microbial fermentation processes for vaccine antigen production in the Upstream Development group in Early Bioprocess Development, Vaccine Research and Development.
The successful candidate will bring a foundation in biochemical engineering, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, or a related discipline and will join a collaborative team dedicated to advancing microbial and mammalian process development for vaccine production.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting the design, development, and optimization of microbial fermentation processes for vaccine antigen production
- Assisting with screening and evaluation of microbial strain candidates using high-throughput fermentation systems
- Operating fermentation systems up to 75 L scale, including media preparation, fermenter setup, process monitoring and control, and product harvest
- Performing fermentation sample analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography, bioanalyzers, and other analytical instruments
- Evaluating and implementing new technologies that enhance fermentation process development capabilities within the group
- Analyzing fermentation data and preparing clear summaries for supervisors and cross-functional project teams
- Documenting experiments in electronic laboratory notebooks in a timely, accurate, and compliant manner
- Providing occasional support for mammalian cell culture activities, including bioreactor setup, process monitoring, sampling, and data analysis, as program needs require
- Flexible work schedule required to support time-sensitive fermentation and cell culture experiments, including occasional work outside of core business hours and on weekends
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline
- Familiarity with the design and execution of microbial fermentation and/or mammalian cell culture experiments
- Solid understanding of microbiology, cell physiology, and biochemical engineering principles
- Experience operating high-throughput bioreactor systems and benchtop or sterilize-in-place fermenters
- Ability to complete familiar tasks with limited instruction and supervision
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
- Ability to compile, organize, and analyze large data sets using commercial data analytics tools (e.g., Spotfire, Power BI)
- Experience preparing and delivering clear scientific summary presentations
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with analytical techniques such as quantitative PCR, Western blot, HPLC, Octet
- General knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (part of GxP)/Good Manufacturing Practices (also cGMP) practices
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as Microsoft Copilot or Gemini, to support problem-solving and enhance productivity
- Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how AI tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible practices, including risk management and ethical use
This role requires flexibility in work schedule to support time-sensitive fermentation and cell culture experiments. Occasional work outside of core business hours, including weekends, may be required based on experimental timelines and program needs.
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $60,200.00 to $100,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of the base salary. Comprehensive and generous benefits and programs are offered to help colleagues lead healthy lives and support each of life's moments.