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From the employer's careers site First seen 5 Nov 2026

Associate Research Fellow

Pfizer California - San Diego On-site senior full-time

Salary

$162,900 to $271,500 per year

Apply on Pfizer

Description

The Associate Research Fellow position is a strong scientific and leadership role within the Early Formulation Science and Drug Delivery (EFS-DD) group.

The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross-functional management, advance both portfolio deliverables and scientific initiatives with deep science and strategic thought, and provide guidance and mentorship to other scientists.

Key Responsibilities/Abilities Include:

  • Strong fundamental understanding of the concepts and connectivity of molecular structure, solid form, dissolution kinetics, thermodynamics, diffusion/permeation behaviour, etc, and the ability to apply this knowledge to the design and development of formulations.
  • Efficient application of existing advanced modelling and simulation tools for predictive performance of oral absorption and systemic exposure (pharmacokinetics) in pre-clinical and clinical studies.
  • Leadership of matrix teams of scientists across multiple levels to deliver portfolio and initiative breakthroughs.
  • Leadership of scientific strategy and direction for advances in oral, small molecule drug delivery through interaction with organisational thought leaders and cross-functional management.
  • Conduct novel scientific research and present significant findings via internal and external presentations or publications.

Basic Qualifications

  • PhD in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with 15+ years relevant experience in industry after degree/post-doc, or BS/MS in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with a minimum of 20 years relevant pharmaceutics industry experience in small molecule drug product design.
  • Small molecule Formulation, Materials Science, and/or early Biopharmaceutics background, and a strong record of scientific achievement.
  • Experience in using and interpreting biophysical modelling, physicochemical (solubility & dissolution) and biological (passive, transporter mediated, efflux) transport phenomena, design, interpretation, and use of in vitro experiments, and interpretation of pre-clinical exposure data for the design and selection of new small molecule drug candidates and drug delivery systems.
  • Motivation to learn and implement new technologies and concepts.
  • A strong interest in leadership.
  • Extensive practical experience working within cross-disciplinary teams and achieving results in a matrix environment.
  • Excellent organisational and communication (oral and written) skills.
  • The ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively.
  • Proven track record of supervising, mentoring and coaching scientists.
  • Understanding of drug discovery and development concepts.
  • Experience in actively developing and advancing scientific initiatives and external collaborations.
  • Collaborative and effective partnering skills applied in a complex, multi-disciplinary organisation.

Physical/Mental Requirements

  • Physical requirements include sitting, standing, performing laboratory tasks.
  • Mental requirements include performing data analysis, strategic thinking/planning.

Non-Standard Work Schedule, Travel or Environment Requirements

  • Occasional travel or non-standard hours may be required.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $162,900.00 to $271,500.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 20.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share-based long-term incentive programme.

We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programmes 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.

Skills

Required

  • Pharmaceutics
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Biophysical Chemistry
  • Materials Science
  • Biopharmaceutics
  • Modelling and Simulation
Apply on Pfizer