Job Description

ROLE SUMMARY
The primary role of the position is to contribute to the RNA Platform improvements for the viral vaccine programs. The candidate will work closely with the viral vaccine director to develop and apply interdisciplinary approaches to understand the mechanisms of action of different types of RNA-based viral vaccine drug substance and lipid nanoparticle drug products. 

TOTAL BASE PAY RANGE
$96,900.00 - $194,000.00 Annual

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the multi-step design, planning and execution of experiments to characterize the RNAs and their formulations for in vitro studies
• Develop, establish, and execute single molecule approaches to investigate patterns of intra-cellular trafficking and localization of RNA including organelle retention of RNA and spatial RNA polarization, and their impact on translation in mammalian primary cells and established cell lines.
• Partner with director to contribute to scientific discussions and strategic internal/external collaborations aimed at advancing the RNA Platform
• Mentor junior scientists’ research activities and provide technical guidance when necessary
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate would have some or all the following skills and attributes:

• Strong foundation in RNA biology
• Comprehensive knowledge and hands on experience with confocal microscopy-based single molecule Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (smFISH) and Immunofluorescence assays
• Hands on experience with cell culture (primary immune cells and established cell lines) and the utilization of cell-based assays to characterize RNA-based products (e.g., Flow cytometry, ELISA/MSD/ELLA, RT-qPCR, Luminescence)
• Strategic agility, strong critical and logical thinking with ability to analyze problems
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a dynamic, cross-functional matrix environment
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and collaborative skills, attentive to detail, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic matrix and fast-paced environment
• PhD in biology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular cell biology or a related field
• 3+ years relevant industry experience in pre-clinical research and in vaccine technical development
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• RNA secondary structure and RNA folding characterization and mRNA stability analysis
• Analysis of translation through polysome profiling and/or ribosome profiling
• Data analysis of NGS-based technologies (RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, scRNA-Seq, Long-Read sequencing, etc.) are preferred
• Experience with managing a small team
ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Candidate will interact with manager and group members on a regular basis and functional lines within Vaccines R & D (VRD) as required. Will also interact with scientists from other parts of Pfizer to advance viral programs and may work with collaborators from external partners.
SUPERVISION

• May directly manage one or more direct reports
• May be required to train colleagues on procedures and techniques needed to support RNA Platform improvements


PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Strong abilities in scientific analysis, cross-functional collaboration, people management, scientific writing, and public speaking required.