Associate Scientist, Assay Development

Pfizer • Cambridge, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Use Your Power for Purpose Pfizer’s purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. At the core of fulfilling this purpose is Research and Development, where we translate advanced science and technologies into the therapies and vaccines that matter the most. You will be at the forefront of this mission, contributing to the discovery and development of innovative treatments that improve patients' lives. Pfizer’s BioMedicine Design (BMD) Assay Development group is seeking a highly motivated research associate to establish binding and functional assays and support hit-to-lead discovery of peptide and antibody-based therapeutics. The candidate will play a critical role in the design and execution of biochemical and of cell-based functional assays and high-throughput screening to support the BioMedicine Design portfolio. The candidate will be responsible for the development and execution of experiments using a variety of detection technologies including homogenous technology including HTRF, ELISA/DELFIA, FACS, imaging and cell-based functional assays focused on signaling, proliferation, or cytotoxicity. In addition, the candidate will analyze data, present results at internal meetings, and closely collaborate with project team members to develop strategies and identify lead molecules. We are looking for a creative, solution-oriented individual who enjoys the opportunity to explore new methods. What You Will Achieve In this role, you will: Develop assays to identify and characterize peptide, antibody and multispecific candidates to support programs across multiple therapeutic areas. Biochemical assay formats may include protein binding, competition and enzymatic cleavage assays. Cell based assays may include binding (FACS and ELISA), competition, cell signaling (NanoBiT, calcium flux, cAMP, phospho-protein HTRF/AlphaLISA, etc) and reporter gene assays using a variety of cell lines. Execute high-throughput screens using automated and semi-automated platforms and analyze results. Collaborate with project teams to establish screening strategies, interpret results, and make decisions to drive programs forward. Write protocols, maintain electronic lab notebook, and regularly review literature to maintain knowledge of scientific trends and new technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 0-3 years of experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology or related discipline, along with a basic understanding of biologics drug discovery workflows.
• Demonstrated experience in assay development and troubleshooting with methods such as HTRF, ELISA/DELFIA, FACS, and cell-based functional assays focused on signaling, proliferation, or cytotoxicity.
• Demonstrated experience with plate-based assay formats and maintaining cell cultures is required.
• Track record of strong problem solving and organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to multi-task.
• Strong written and oral communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Tecan or Beckman liquid handling platforms is preferred but not required.
• Experience with high content imaging and multiplex assay formats is preferred.
• Experience writing scripts to automate data processing or other coding experience is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop assays to identify and characterize peptide, antibody and multispecific candidates to support programs across multiple therapeutic areas.
• Biochemical assay formats may include protein binding, competition and enzymatic cleavage assays.
• Cell based assays may include binding (FACS and ELISA), competition, cell signaling (NanoBiT, calcium flux, cAMP, phospho-protein HTRF/AlphaLISA, etc) and reporter gene assays using a variety of cell lines.
• Execute high-throughput screens using automated and semi-automated platforms and analyze results.
• Collaborate with project teams to establish screening strategies, interpret results, and make decisions to drive programs forward.
• Write protocols, maintain electronic lab notebook, and regularly review literature to maintain knowledge of scientific trends and new technologies.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees