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Associate Scientist, Seasonal Strain Change Vaccines
PfizerUnited States - New York - Pearl River$60,200 - $100,4001-3 years
Apply Use Your Power for Purpose
At Pfizer, our purpose is to deliver breakthroughs that transform patients' lives. Central to this mission is our Research and Development team, which strives to convert advanced science and cutting-edge technologies into impactful therapies and vaccines. Whether you are engaged in discovery sciences, ensuring drug safety and efficacy, or supporting clinical trials, your role is crucial. You will leverage innovative design and process development capabilities to expedite the delivery of top tier medicines to patients globally. By integrating advanced scientific knowledge with practical applications, we aim to bring the most effective treatments to those in need, fulfilling our commitment to improving health outcomes worldwide.
Role description
The Research Platform Technology Team within the Department of Seasonal Strain Change Vaccines is seeking a motivated Associate Scientist to join a collaborative, team-oriented group advancing the preclinical development of multiple vaccine programs and platform technologies. In this role, you will support vaccine production and characterization, assay development, platform optimization, and the evaluation of novel technologies. Your contributions will help generate the preclinical data needed to inform key go/no-go decisions across multiple viral and bacterial vaccine programs. The successful candidate will be a reliable team player who enjoys working across teams and adapts well in a dynamic environment. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career scientist to broaden their technical skill set while contributing to meaningful vaccine research in a collaborative and supportive environment.
What You Will Achieve
Perform standard molecular biology techniques such as cloning, RT-qPCR, nucleic acid purification, bacterial transformation, in vitro transcription, and related methods.
Support the production and characterization of mRNA drug substance and mRNA-LNP drug product using established protocols and analytical assays.
Maintain multiple mammalian cell lines.
Perform cell-based assays to assess vaccine candidate potency.
Support the development, troubleshooting, and optimization of novel assays for the in-depth evaluation of vaccine candidates and platform strategies.
Analyze, interpret, and summarize results, and present experimental progress and findings in team and departmental meetings as needed.
Document all work thoroughly and maintain clear, accurate, and complete records in laboratory notebooks in compliance with Pfizer Laboratory Notebook requirements.
Maintain reagent and sample inventories and support maintenance of laboratory supplies.
Remain current on all safety and quality training in accordance with departmental requirements.
Organize work to meet deadlines and learn new technical skills as needed.
Collaborate effectively and contribute as an engaged team member.
Participate in company and team events, such as town hall meetings, milestone celebrations, and team-building activities, to build connections and celebrate shared successes.
Perform other tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
Must Have
Bachelor's degree in molecular biology, cell biology, virology, or a related scientific field with 1–3 years of laboratory research experience,
Hands-on laboratory experience with standard molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, RT-qPCR, E. coli transformation, DNA/RNA extraction and purification) and mammalian cell culture.
Working knowledge of molecular biology and sequence analysis software such as Geneious, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, GraphPad Prism.
Attention to detail, solid problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage multiple competing priorities.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment.
Nice to Have
Industry experience is preferred.
Master's degree in a related scientific field with 0–1 year of laboratory research experience.
Hands-on experience with cloning, DNA sequencing, immunofluorescence assays, and flow cytometry.
Previous experience working with mRNA is highly desirable.
Experience using AI tools such as Copilot, Gemini, or similar platforms to improve productivity and efficiency.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Routine laboratory work, including aseptic technique and adherence to biosafety procedures.
Ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive pipetting, and lift/move standard laboratory consumables in accordance with site guidelines.
Ability to work effectively in a high-visibility research program with time-sensitive milestones.
Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

Candidates must be authorized to be employed in the U.S. by any employer.
U.S. work visa sponsorship (such as TN, O-1, H-1B, etc.) is not available for this role now or in the future.

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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. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
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Research and Development