Senior Associate Scientist

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

13h • Onsite

About The Position

At Pfizer, our purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. As a Senior Associate Scientist Biology, you will be at the forefront of our mission, contributing to the development of innovative therapies and vaccines that have the potential to transform patient care. We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Associate Scientist with advanced expertise in next generation sequencing (NGS) to join the NGS/Data Science team within Vaccines Research in Pearl River. This is a primarily laboratory-based role supporting ongoing research and development initiatives. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary partners to advance and apply NGS technologies across vaccine programs. Key responsibilities include executing assays with precision, managing deliverables, maintaining laboratory readiness, participating in project meetings, and organizing action items. Additionally, this role requires meticulous documentation practices, attention to detail, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and sound critical thinking. Along with adhering to established laboratory procedures, the ideal candidate should demonstrate scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for developmental and exploratory work. A solid foundation in DNA/RNA biology, qPCR assay development, genetics, molecular biology, and mechanisms of genomic mutation and variation is required. What You Will Achieve In this role, you will: Execute NGS protocols to support vaccine program initiatives. Conduct laboratory-based activities, including sample organization and preparation, DNA/RNA purification, library construction, qPCR, tissue processing, and related tasks. Operate, maintain, optimize, and manage laboratory automation systems; develop and improve automated workflows. Develop innovative sequencing protocols for pathogen and/or human genome characterization using Ion Torrent and Illumina platforms. Demonstrate advanced problem-solving abilities, including troubleshooting and resolution of technical issues with high-level of independence. Manage project timelines effectively and work efficiently on assigned tasks. Maintain current knowledge of scientific literature and emerging technologies; attend relevant scientific meetings to integrate new technologies and principles as appropriate. Perform molecular biology research, data analysis, and other tasks aligned with program needs. Complete all required safety training in accordance with departmental standards. Where applicable, ensure compliance with GxP and other relevant regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Virology, Immunology, or a related scientific discipline with 4–5 years of relevant laboratory experience, or a Master’s degree with 2–3 years of relevant hands-on laboratory experience.
• Minimum of two years’ experience working with NGS technologies.
• Proficiency with a wide range of molecular biology and analytical techniques, including nucleic acid extraction, fluorescence-based quantification, and real-time PCR.
• Exceptional task planning, problem-solving abilities, and ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills

Nice To Haves

• Experience and programming capabilities with laboratory automation systems, e.g. Biomek, Hamilton, or similar liquid handling systems
• Experience working in a regulated laboratory environment
• Familiarity with LIMS system or other digital laboratory information systems
• Demonstrated abilities to rapidly learn new technical skills and concepts
• Experience with single-cell RNA-seq and/or immune profiling NGS assays

Responsibilities

• Execute NGS protocols to support vaccine program initiatives.
• Conduct laboratory-based activities, including sample organization and preparation, DNA/RNA purification, library construction, qPCR, tissue processing, and related tasks.
• Operate, maintain, optimize, and manage laboratory automation systems; develop and improve automated workflows.
• Develop innovative sequencing protocols for pathogen and/or human genome characterization using Ion Torrent and Illumina platforms.
• Demonstrate advanced problem-solving abilities, including troubleshooting and resolution of technical issues with high-level of independence.
• Manage project timelines effectively and work efficiently on assigned tasks.
• Maintain current knowledge of scientific literature and emerging technologies; attend relevant scientific meetings to integrate new technologies and principles as appropriate.
• Perform molecular biology research, data analysis, and other tasks aligned with program needs.
• Complete all required safety training in accordance with departmental standards.
• Where applicable, ensure compliance with GxP and other relevant regulatory requirements.

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: Mid Level