Senior Associate Scientist- Formulations

Pfizer Pfizer · Pharma · MA

This role focuses on the formulation development and analytical characterization of biotherapeutic molecules for Pfizer's biotherapeutics portfolio. The Senior Associate Scientist will perform experiments using various biophysical and biochemical techniques, support drug product manufacturing process development, and be responsible for data compilation and reporting. The role requires a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant scientific discipline and hands-on laboratory experience with analytical characterization of biotherapeutics.

What you'd actually do

  1. Participate in the development of parenteral formulations for biotherapeutic modalities, including peptide‑based therapeutics, mAbs, ADCs, proteins, and vaccines. Under general supervision, support the development of associated drug product manufacturing processes.
  2. Perform rapid and comprehensive characterization of candidate molecules to establish stability profiles and apply these insights to develop appropriate dosage forms that meet clinical requirements. This work will utilize a broad range of biophysical and biochemical techniques, including UPLC (SE‑UPLC, IEX, RP‑UPLC), SDS‑PAGE, LC‑MS, capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), imaged capillary electrophoresis (iCE), and spectroscopy methods such as UV, fluorescence, circular dichroism, and FTIR.
  3. Assist in the development and scale‑up of drug product processes from bench‑top to pilot scale, and, as required, support technology transfer to commercial manufacturing facilities. Drug product processes may include fluid handling, sterilizing filtration, and lyophilization.
  4. Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists to support formulation optimization and overall candidate progression.
  5. Prepare data summary presentations, compile experimental data, and author technical reports to clearly communicate results and conclusions.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in Biochemistry, Chemical or Biochemical Engineering, Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, or a related discipline
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with a variety of analytical techniques
  • Experience with analytical characterization of biotherapeutics using techniques such as UPLC (IEX), SDS-PAGE, capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), imaged capillary electrophoresis (iCE), and spectroscopic methods
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Proficiency with general computer software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools
  • Demonstrated ability to solve scientific problems using contemporary experimental techniques
  • Experience accurately recording experimental details and data in an electronic laboratory notebook (ELN)

Nice to have

  • Master’s degree in a relevant scientific discipline
  • Experience in peptide synthesis, or peptide conjugation (including lipidated and/or chemically modified peptides), formulation development, or analytical characterization of peptides and peptide conjugates using techniques such as SE‑UPLC, RP‑UPLC, LC‑MS, peptide mapping, and related methods
  • In-depth knowledge of current U.S. and global regulatory requirements, including FDA and ICH guidance
  • Familiarity with quality system regulations (21 CFR Part 4) for combination products
  • Ability to review, interpret, and approve engineering and development documentation
  • Strong collaboration skills and experience working effectively within multidisciplinary project teams
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage work to meet project timelines and deadlines
  • Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in scientific work and documentation
  • Experience using common AI-enabled tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity

What the JD emphasized

  • 2–4 years of relevant experience
  • 0–2 years of experience