Director, External Science Lead, Biologics Discovery and Design

Pfizer • Cambridge, MA

6d • $176,600 - $294,300 • Hybrid

About The Position

Discovery Network (DN), External Science Lead Biologics Discovery and Design supports Pfizer's broad strategic objectives which include creating a future R&D ecosystem where internal capabilities and science blend with external innovation and where breakthrough ideas can develop into differentiated medicines. You will facilitate the evaluation and application of innovative biologics discovery and design platforms to strengthen Pfizer R&D pipeline. As part of the Preclinical & Translational Sciences (P&TS) and the Discovery Network (DN) team you will partner closely with BioMedicine Design (BMD) and engage the global life sciences ecosystem (academia, biotech, venture, and consortia) to source and advance technologies spanning protein therapeutic discovery, design, optimization and early developability, including AI/ML-enabled approaches. You will work closely across all Research Units (RUs) to ensure broad applicability and portfolio impact, leading diligence, governance, and partnership execution aligned with strategic priorities.

Requirements

• PhD or similar advanced degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, including significant experience in biologics discovery, protein engineering, or related discipline
• Experience in business development, alliance management, or technology partnerships
• Knowledge of early developability and biologics optimization considerations
• Experience evaluating external scientific opportunities and driving prioritization
• Experience working in cross-functional, matrix organizations
• Strong communication skills, verbal, written and presentation, with experience communicating to different business groups/lines influencing senior stakeholders
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity
• Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.
• Permanent work authorization in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in pharmaceutical drug development (Idea to Candidate) process.
• Previous experience in biotechnology companies and/or venture investment.
• Experience in process development, formulation, or drug product technologies
• Candidate demonstrates a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead global networking and sourcing of external biologics discovery and protein engineering technologies
• Identify and evaluate AI/ML-enabled platforms for protein design, structure prediction, and design-make-test workflows
• Partner with Bio-Molecular Design to define high-impact use cases and integration pathways into internal workflows
• Drive alignment and adoption across all Research Units (RUs) and partner lines
• Build and lead cross-functional diligence teams to evaluate scientific and strategic fit
• Shepherd prioritized opportunities through governance and deal processes with BD and Legal
• Leverage internal capabilities to position Pfizer as partner-of-choice and enable collaboration success
• Represent Pfizer externally at key biologics and platform technology forums

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
• health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree