Ex Vivo Research Scientist (non-PhD), Vaccines

ROLE SUMMARY

The incumbent will be a research scientist with expertise in analysis and design of in vitro experiments to complement ongoing studies in laboratory animals.  Specific focus is the study of human pathogen infection and disease, bacterial experience required. This individual will support and assist colleagues through completion of animal studies for evaluation of preclinical efficacy of key vaccine candidates. 

The incumbent also will assist in design and conduct experiments to quantify humoral and cellular immune responses to candidate vaccines, as required.  In addition to high technical competence, the individual in this position understands and can articulate the principles that underlie technology and can provide technical guidance for future assignments. This individual can independently design and carry out a series of studies to solve a problem or evaluate a process/procedure. Solutions may involve the development of new techniques and procedures. 

The incumbent will be required to work in close proximity with project teams, supporting lines and team members to drive the design and logistics for in vivo and in vitro studies, as well as take a hands-on role to support laboratory activities.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Learn to evaluate responses to vaccine candidates through ELISA, Luminex, ELISpot, multi-parameter flow cytometry, opsonophagocytic, antigenic stimulation proliferation, cytokine production, qPCR or any other assays as requested. Assist in the development of assays or animal models required to support various vaccine projects.

• Analyze data and present experimental results at group meetings, project meetings and department meetings.  Write progress report as well as documentation of all work in electronic notebook as required.

• Animal study support -assist in animal procedures required to evaluate the immunogenicity and efficacy of vaccine and study of human pathogen infection and disease.

• Support colleagues in the laboratory through preparation of media, stocking of reagents, ordering supplies.  Work efficiently as part of a team in a matrixed environment

• Demonstrate proficiency in proper handling of bacterial isolates and clinical samples; mastery of aseptic technique and familiarity with BSL2 and ABSL2 safety practices for working in the laboratory.

• Where applicable, perform job responsibilities in compliance with cGMP/GLP and all other regulatory agency requirements. 

• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree required.  At least 5 years of relevant laboratory experience, or M.S. in immunology, or related field and 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience preferred. 

• Technical experience in developing and executing in vitro assays to evaluate success of animal models of infectious disease and immunological assays required. 

• Familiarity with standard laboratory methods in immunology, cell biology and in vivo assays,

• Ability to work semi-independently, adept at using personal computers – including word processing, spreadsheets, PRISM, PowerPoint and other relevant scientific software, motivated, flexible and willing to learn new skill sets.

• Ability to develop and perform functional immune cell assays and interest in learning and developing new techniques and skills.

  
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Sitting, standing, walking, and repetitive procedures, light lifting; ability to analyze data and design experiments and present scientific concepts to colleagues. 

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Local travel

• Adherence to all safe work practices and working within defined biosafety requirements.

• Flexibility to work late hours/weekends if needed.

Other Job Details:

Eligible for Relocation Package

Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus

#LI-PFE

Pfizer requires all U.S. new hires to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to the first date of employment.  As required by applicable law, Pfizer will consider requests for Reasonable Accommodations.

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EEO & Employment Eligibility

Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status.  Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA.  Pfizer is an E-Verify employer.

Research and Development