Associate Scientist, Vaccines Upstream Bioprocess Development

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

2d • $60,200 - $100,400 • Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Scientist will contribute to the design, development, and optimization of microbial fermentation processes that support vaccine development within Pfizer’s Upstream Development group in Early Bioprocess Development, Vaccine Research and Development, in Pearl River, NY. The role primarily supports programs focused on subunit protein vaccines derived from bacterial expression systems, with opportunities to contribute to mammalian cell culture programs as needed. The position involves screening microbial strains, developing and optimizing fermentation processes, supporting scale-up, analyzing experimental data, and collaborating with cross-functional partners.

The successful candidate will have a foundation in biochemical engineering, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, or a related discipline and will join a collaborative team advancing microbial and mammalian process development for vaccine production. The role requires a flexible work schedule for time-sensitive experiments, including occasional work outside core business hours and on weekends. It is performed on premise in Pearl River, New York.

The annual base salary ranges from $60,200 to $100,400. The position is eligible for Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan, with a bonus target of 7.5% of base salary. Benefits include a 401(k) plan with matching and an additional retirement savings contribution, paid vacation, holidays and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States; work visa sponsorship is not available.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemical or 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 such as Spotfire or Power BI.
• Experience preparing and delivering clear scientific summary presentations.
• Ability to occasionally lift 20–30 lb items, perform aseptic transfers, and carry out relevant laboratory functions.
• Ability to apply sound scientific judgment and perform complex data analysis.
• Permanent U.S. work authorization; work visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with analytical techniques such as quantitative PCR, Western blot, HPLC, or Octet.
• General knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GxP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
• Strong problem-solving skills and 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.
• Curiosity about how AI tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible practices, including risk management and ethical use.

Responsibilities

• Support the design, development, and optimization of microbial fermentation processes for vaccine antigen production.
• Assist with screening and evaluation of microbial strain candidates using high-throughput fermentation systems.
• Operate fermentation systems up to 75 L scale, including media preparation, fermenter setup, process monitoring and control, and product harvest.
• Perform fermentation sample analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography, bioanalyzers, and other analytical instruments.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies that enhance the group’s fermentation process development capabilities.
• Analyze fermentation data and prepare clear summaries for supervisors and cross-functional project teams.
• Document experiments in electronic laboratory notebooks in a timely, accurate, and compliant manner.
• Provide occasional support for mammalian cell culture activities, including bioreactor setup, process monitoring, sampling, and data analysis, as program needs require.
• Work flexibly to support time-sensitive fermentation and cell culture experiments, including occasional work outside core business hours and on weekends.

Benefits

• 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.
• Medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.
• Eligible for Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of base salary.
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level