Lead Scientist in In Vitro Pharmacology

re involved in discovery research, ensuring drug safety and efficacy, or supporting clinical trials, your efforts will be key in speeding the delivery of high-quality medicines to those who need them.

Your Contributions Will Include

As part of the In Vitro Pharmacology team within the Internal Medicine Research Unit (IMRU), you will focus on pioneering therapies for obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Your expertise will be instrumental in the early drug discovery process, where you will create in vitro screening assays and apply your pharmacological knowledge regarding GPCRs, enzymes, and other target protein classes. You will also help enhance our understanding of new therapeutic candidates, support lead optimization, and collaborate with various project teams to advance drug candidates toward clinical trials. Strong technical skills, problem-solving abilities, self-motivation, and effective communication are essential for success in this role.

In this position, you will:
• Design and develop assays for in vitro screening using binding, signaling, and functional endpoints to support various throughput screening efforts.
• Validate in vitro cell models through the use of immortalized, primary cells, and co-culture systems, adapting them for cell-based screening assays as necessary.
• Independently conceptualize, design, and execute in vitro studies to unravel the complex molecular pharmacology of promising therapeutic agents targeting GPCRs, enzymes, and more within the IMRU portfolio.
• Employ rigorous data analytical methods to ensure accurate scientific interpretations and results.
• Translate experimental findings to improve our understanding of target biology and how pharmacological agents affect physiological endpoints.
• Co-author and prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
• Stay updated on the latest scientific and technical advancements in preclinical and clinical research to enhance portfolio programs.
• Conduct all research and discovery work adhering to the highest standards of quality and ethical guidelines, in line with regulatory, QC, and compliance requirements.

Requirements
• BA/BS with 12 years, MS with 9 years, or PhD with 4 years of relevant experience in biochemistry, cell biology, and/or pharmacology. Experience in cardiometabolic research is a plus.
• Proven experience in in vitro screening in a drug discovery context with various pharmacological targets, particularly GPCRs and enzymes, bolstered by a solid foundation in plate-based pharmacology. Lab automation experience would be advantageous.
• Hands-on experience in Molecular Pharmacology or Mechanism of Action studies, with familiarity in both traditional and innovative screening techniques related to GPCR and enzyme drug development.
• Extensive expertise in cell-based assay development and mammalian cell culture.
• Demonstrated scientific rigor to critically evaluate data and independently formulate and test novel scientific hypotheses.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to work autonomously as well as part of a diverse collaborative team.
• Strong scientific writing capabilities, evidenced by a track record of publications in high-impact journals and presentations at major conferences.
• Ability to provide mentoring and technical guidance to junior staff.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Required capabilities include lifting, sitting, standing, walking, bending, and performing mathematical calculations, along with conducting complex data analyses and laboratory tasks.

This position operates on-site. Relocation support may be provided based on business needs and eligibility. The annual base salary for this position ranges from $106,000.00 to $176,600.00, along with a bonus target of 15.0% and participation in a share-based long-term incentive program. Comprehensive benefits are offered, including a 401(k) plan with matching contributions, paid vacation, medical leave, and health coverage.

Candidates must have authorization for employment in the U.S. and must meet work visa eligibility. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer.

Pfizer is dedicated to equal employment opportunities, and all applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status.