Sr Assoc Scientist, Vaccines Upstream Bioprocess Development

Pfizer • Pearl River, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Pfizer’s purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. At the core of fulfilling this purpose is Research and Development, where we strive to translate advanced science and technologies into the therapies and vaccines that matter most. Your role will focus on developing robust, scalable, and high-productivity cell culture processes for manufacturing biological therapeutics for both early- and late-phase clinical programs. Your extensive experience and deep understanding of the principles, concepts, and practices of the discipline will make you an invaluable team member. Your expertise will guide critical decision-making processes, often requiring you to choose among limited options. You will actively contribute to all team discussions, bringing your innovative scientific mindset to the table. This proactive approach will help Pfizer achieve new milestones and make a significant impact on patients worldwide. Role Summary The Senior Associate Scientist will contribute to the design, development, and optimization of microbial fermentation processes that support vaccine development within the Upstream Development group in Early Bioprocess Development, Vaccine Research and Development, located in Pearl River, NY. The role will primarily support programs focused on subunit protein vaccines derived from bacterial expression systems, with opportunities to contribute to mammalian cell culture programs as needed. Key responsibilities include screening microbial strains, developing and optimizing fermentation processes, supporting process scale-up, analyzing experimental data, and collaborating with cross-functional partners. The successful candidate will bring a foundation in biochemical engineering, biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology, or a related discipline and will join a collaborative team dedicated to advancing microbial and mammalian process development for vaccine production.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline with 3+ years of relevant experience or MS with any years of experience
• 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 (e.g. Spotfire, Power BI, etc.)
• Experience preparing and delivering clear scientific summary presentations
• This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with analytical techniques such as quantitative PCR, Western blot, HPLC, Octet
• General knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (part of GxP)/Good Manufacturing Practices (also cGMP) practices
• Strong problem-solving skills and the 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.
• Demonstrated curiosity for exploring 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 fermentation process development capabilities within the group
• 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
• Flexible work schedule required to support time-sensitive fermentation and cell culture experiments, including occasional work outside of 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
• 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: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree