Principal Scientist- Downstream Process Development

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

475d • $99,900 - $166,500

About The Position

The Principal Scientist in Downstream Process Development at Pfizer will play a crucial role in advancing vaccine programs by focusing on the purification and characterization of mRNA Drug Substances. This position involves collaboration with senior leadership and multidisciplinary teams to enhance the development of next-generation RNA vaccines. The role emphasizes technical expertise, mentorship, and innovative scientific approaches to accelerate vaccine delivery to patients globally.

Requirements

• PhD degree in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or related field with at least 3+ years of relevant downstream industry experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience and strong background in chromatography and filtration.
• Prior experience with bio-process downstream development.
• Experience with nucleic acid or protein purification and characterization including FPLC, HPLC, UF/DF, UV/Vis, SDS-PAGE, and/or Fragment Analyzer/Tape station.
• Understanding of critical quality attributes of drug substances.
• Prior experience with tech transfer to manufacturing site is preferred.
• Experience with continuous processing is preferred.
• Exemplary people skills and demonstrable leadership behaviors.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated technical writing and presentation skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with computational predictive tools, modeling software, and data visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the multi-step design, planning, and execution of analytical strategies, methods, and instrumentation to purify and characterize the mRNA Drug Substance (DS).
• Develop continuous downstream processes for drug substances.
• Mentor junior scientists' research activities and provide technical guidance when necessary.
• Collaborate with colleagues and subject matter experts to assess the most appropriate analytical approach to support project activities.
• Lead and be responsible for several projects, helping teams devise effective strategies for analytical requirements and controls.
• Author relevant sections of vaccine technical report documents in support of interdepartmental technology and method transfer.
• Prepare technical reports, critically review data, and evaluate new instrumentation and analytical techniques.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions
• Paid vacation, holiday, and personal days
• Paid caregiver/parental and medical leave
• Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage
• Participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 15% of base salary
• Eligibility to participate in share-based long-term incentive program
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree