Principal Scientist, Bacteriology Immunology

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

15h • Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Scientist is a laboratory-based role for an experimental scientist with deep expertise in microbial immunology research, supporting preclinical research and development of bacterial vaccines. The role drives investigations of early bacterial vaccine candidates and studies mechanisms of protective immunity by generating, analyzing, and interpreting laboratory data in a collaborative environment. The scientist partners cross-functionally to ensure assay approaches are scientifically robust, fit for purpose, and aligned with program objectives, and represents the research function on multidisciplinary vaccine teams.

Requirements

• PhD in Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related scientific discipline, with 4 or more years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated success leading independent research programs, with a strong record of scientific achievement and influence in multidisciplinary, collaborative research environments.
• Extensive hands-on expertise in designing, developing, optimizing, and applying immunological assays to address scientific questions.
• Ability to independently design, execute, interpret, and communicate complex preclinical research studies, including generating mechanistic insights that inform scientific and project decisions.
• Expertise in microbial immunology and/or host-pathogen interactions.
• Experience integrating multidimensional datasets and applying scientific judgment to develop hypotheses, solve technical challenges, assess risks, and recommend future research directions.
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts and research findings through publications, presentations, technical reports, and interactions with technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Strong organizational, planning, and prioritization skills, including the ability to manage multiple scientific initiatives while maintaining high standards of scientific rigor and quality.
• Proficiency with personal computers, Microsoft Office, and relevant scientific software.
• Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and productivity; curiosity about using these tools to improve outcomes; and understanding of responsible AI practices, risk management, and ethical use.
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States by any employer. U.S. work visa sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

• At least 2 years of relevant industry experience in vaccine research, infectious disease, or applied biomedical research.
• Experience in bacterial vaccine research and development, including antigen discovery, vaccine candidate evaluation, immune-response characterization, and mechanisms of protective immunity.
• Experience identifying, evaluating, and implementing emerging technologies, analytical approaches, or innovative methodologies that enhance vaccine research capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, execution, and interpretation of complex preclinical research studies evaluating early-stage bacterial vaccine candidates and elucidating mechanisms of protective immunity; provide scientific direction and data-driven recommendations to advance program objectives.
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve immunological, microbiological, cellular, and molecular assay platforms that meet bacterial vaccine research and development needs.
• Integrate multidimensional datasets across immunology, microbiology, molecular biology, and preclinical models to generate mechanistic insights, identify potential correlates of protection, and inform candidate selection and development strategies.
• Provide scientific leadership on multidisciplinary project teams by identifying key scientific questions, assessing technical risks, evaluating emerging technologies, and influencing project decisions.
• Author and communicate scientific findings through technical reports, publications, presentations, and strategic recommendations.
• Foster collaborations with internal partners and external scientific collaborators to advance bacterial vaccine research objectives.
• Provide technical mentorship and scientific guidance to junior scientists and project team members, as appropriate.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution.
• Paid vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Paid caregiver, parental, and medical leave.
• 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 a share-based long-term incentive program.
• Relocation support may be available based on business needs and eligibility.

What This Job Offers

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