Senior Scientist, Automation

Pfizer Pfizer · Pharma · CT

This role focuses on designing, prototyping, and developing laboratory automation solutions for process development in healthcare, leveraging technologies like computer vision and machine learning. It involves integrating automated hardware, implementing robotic control and data management systems, and using coding languages like Python or C++ for AI/ML applications. The goal is to enhance automation for laboratory experimentation and drug development workflows.

What you'd actually do

  1. Design, prototype and develop laboratory automation solutions for process development applications as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
  2. Facilitate data-rich experimentation through enhanced analytics, computer vision and other emerging technologies.
  3. Develop and implement synergistic digital tools for machine learning and self-optimization to enhance automation goals.
  4. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to implement automation tools and develop novel solutions for execution of laboratory experimentation.
  5. Implement robotic control and data management systems.

Skills

Required

  • BA/BS in Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry or Mechatronic Engineering related discipline with 9 to 11 years of experience OR MBA/MS in Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry or Mechatronic Engineering related discipline with 7 to 8 years of experience OR Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Organic Chemistry or Mechatronic Engineering related discipline with 0 to 4 years of experience
  • Demonstrated ability to design and develop creative solutions, ideally targeted towards application for laboratory automation.
  • Creative thinking and problem-solving skills at the interface of chemistry, engineering and data-science.
  • Experience with CAD designs and prototyping new equipment.
  • Experience in integrating automated hardware and analytical devices, e.g. XYZ cartesian and/or 6/7-axes robotic arms with process analytical technologies.
  • Knowledge of coding languages such as Python or C++ for automation controls, data management and/or AI/ML applications.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to effectively work with a multi-disciplinary team comprised of chemists, chemical engineers, computer scientist and data scientists.

Nice to have

  • Expertise in process research and development
  • Hands-on experience in optimizing, characterizing, and scaling up process steps
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills
  • Experience in technology transfer to manufacturing facilities
  • Ability to stay current with scientific literature and advancements in the field
  • Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity.
  • Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use

What the JD emphasized

  • creative solutions, ideally targeted towards application for laboratory automation
  • interface of chemistry, engineering and data-science
  • integrating automated hardware and analytical devices
  • coding languages such as Python or C++ for automation controls, data management and/or AI/ML applications

Other signals

  • develop synergistic digital tools for machine learning
  • implement robotic control and data management systems
  • knowledge of coding languages such as Python or C++ for automation controls, data management and/or AI/ML applications