Principal Scientist (PhD), Biophysics
Pfizer, La Jolla, CA, United States
ROLE SUMMARY The Pfizer Oncology Research Unit in La Jolla is seeking an accomplished Principal Scientist to join the Biophysics & HTS group within Discovery Technologies. The successful candidate will evaluate drug interactions and protein behavior primarily using biophysical methods. In addition, the characterization of drug interactions may involve other biochemical or cellular methods. The successful candidate will work with a high degree of independence, providing biophysical insight on targets and ligands to impact project teams at a strategic level. ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES The successful candidate for this position will: Work independently as a discipline expert to characterize small molecule-protein interactions using biophysical methods (SPR, HTRF, ITC, thermal stability-based assays, MST, native MS). Regularly represent the biophysics group on multi-disciplinary teams to provide scientific insights into the kinetics and thermodynamics of protein-ligand interactions. Display a growing knowledge and understanding of other disciplines relevant to early-stage drug discovery. Mentor and train colleagues in biophysical methods. Identify and integrate emerging biophysical technologies to strengthen current capabilities within the group. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS PhD degree in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Structural Biology or a closely related field with 3-5 years of drug discovery experience in a pharmaceutical industrial or academic laboratory setting. Demonstrated expertise in the use of biophysical methods (SPR, HTRF, ITC, MST, Native MS and thermal stability assays such as DSF) for characterization of protein-ligand interactions. Hands-on experience in high-throughput screening and plate-based pharmacology. Experience in handing a diverse range of recombinant proteins as tools in biochemical or biophysical assays. Knowledge and understanding in the areas of enzymology, mechanisms of drug action, and structural biology. Outstanding publication record reflecting scientific drive and creativity across multiple disciplines. Excellent oral and written communication skills, along with excellent interpersonal skills to facilitate knowledge sharing and scientific discussions. A team player. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience in small-molecule screening using biophysical methods. Relevant experience in difficult-to-drug targets, targeted protein degradation, ADC would be valued. PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS Candidate will be required to lift and transport large stacks and boxes of plates, plate stackers/hotels, and 5L bottles of liquids for use with the automated equipment regularly. Candidate may need to use step stools to climb and reach items above eye level. Candidate will also diagnose and repair equipment with various tools occasionally. Must be able to work safely in a laboratory environment with lab coat, protective eye wear and gloves. The job can require standing and walking for most of the day regularly. Relocation support available Work Location Assignment: On Premise The annual base salary for this position ranges from $99,900.00 to $166,500.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 15.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life's moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site - U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States. Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility. Sunshine Act Pfizer reports payments and other transfers of value to health care providers as required by federal and state transparency laws and implementing regulations. These laws and regulations require Pfizer to provide government agencies with information such as a health care provider's name, address and the type of payments or other value received, generally for public disclosure. Subject to further legal review and statutory or regulatory clarification, which Pfizer intends to pursue, reimbursement of recruiting expenses for licensed physicians may constitute a reportable transfer of value under the federal transparency law commonly known as the Sunshine Act. Therefore, if you are a licensed physician who incurs recruiting expenses as a result of interviewing with Pfizer that we pay or reimburse, your name, address and the amount of payments made currently will be reported to the government. If you have questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact your Talent Acquisition representative. 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. Research and Development