What You Will Achieve

Pfizer’s purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. Research and Development is at the heart of fulfilling Pfizer’s purpose as we work to translate advanced science and technologies into the therapies and vaccines that matter most. As a Senior Scientist in Viral Vaccines & Immunology group, you will spearhead groundbreaking research aimed at developing next-generation vaccines that can transform patient lives. You will lead projects to design cutting-edge vaccine candidates. The ideal applicant must have experience in herpesviruses biology and immunoassays related to these viruses. Additional knowledge on herpesvirus vaccination using animal models is highly desirable. The incumbent should possess a strong scientific curiosity and rigor and be adaptable to take on the group’s scientific challenges as they arise. The incumbent will work closely with the Director, project teams, supporting lines, team members, and external collaborators to drive the design and execution of experiments, and take a “hands on” role in laboratory activities. The incumbent will contribute to strategic directions for the group. The appointee will be part of a dynamic team and should possess a strong work ethic and collaborative spirit. Your work will directly contribute to the discovery of new vaccine targets and the optimization of immunogenic formulations, ultimately advancing our mission to deliver life-saving vaccines and improve global health outcomes.

How You Will Achieve It

• Regularly contribute and influence at the project team level.

• Effectively collaborate with other members of Vaccine Research & Development and supporting partner lines.

• Document, interpret, and communicate experiments in this core area of expertise with a goal of advancing vaccine development, demonstrating high standards of scientific rigor, including compliant documentation and, when necessary, adherence to formal quality standards.

• Collaborate with colleagues in design and execution of experiments.

• Develop in vitro and ex-vivo assays for vaccine development and remain current in the scientific literature and state of the art techniques.

• Develop, optimize, and perform serology assays to support preclinical vaccine studies.

• Perform basic molecular biology techniques including PCR and cloning among others.

• Identify, trouble-shoot, and optimize relevant assay systems, technologies, and readouts.

• Conduct research that leads to publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation of data at internal and external meetings.

Qualifications

Must-Have

• PhD in Virology, Immunology or related discipline OR Master’s degree and 6 to 8 years of scientific/technical experience OR Bachelors Degree with 9 to 11 years of experience

• Strong experience with basic virology assays, preferably related to herpesviruses.

• Skilled in molecular biology and cell biology techniques.

• Experience with immunology assays (antibodies and cell-mediated immunity)

• Ability to work well in sight of aggressive timelines and excellence in multitasking.

• Highly organized, detail-oriented individual.

• Demonstrate curiosity and creative desire to answer scientific questions.

• Ability to perform complex data analysis.

• Team player with strong communication skills - written and verbal.

• Strong time management and organizational skills.

• Track record of scientific excellence in vaccine research, immunology, infectious diseases or related fields, and a desire to continue in a laboratory-focused role.

Nice to Have

• Experience with organoid vaccine models

• Experience with adjuvant vaccine assay development

• A strong background and experience in multiparametric flow cytometry assays including immunophenotyping and immune based functional assays.

• Expertise in the isolation, differentiation and characterization of primary immune cells from murine tissues and human blood

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Relevant work experience in a laboratory setting

• Capacity to work effectively in highly visible research programs with time-constrained milestones is necessary.

• Work Location Assignment:On Premise

• Relocation support available

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $88,300.00 to $147,100.00. 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.

Research and Development