Senior Scientist

Responsibilities

• This position is laboratory-based and best suited for an experimental scientist with deep expertise in protein expression, purification, biophysical characterization, and crystallization of challenging targets. The successful candidate for this position will:
• Support multiple small molecule oncology drug discovery programs in parallel.
• Identify and integrate emerging protein and structural biology technologies to strengthen current capabilities within the group.
• Required Qualifications
• B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Protein Sciences or a related discipline, with 9+ years of relevant experience for a Bachelor's degree, 7+ years for a Master's degree, or 0+ years' experience required for a Ph.D.
• Extensive hands‑on laboratory experience in advanced protein biochemistry, with a proven track record of producing high‑quality protein samples from exceptionally challenging targets for structural and biophysical studies.
• Expertise in protein construct design, expression across multiple systems, and complex, multi‑step purification workflows, including development of fit‑for‑purpose proteins to support crystallography, structure‑based drug discovery, biochemical assays and hit identification screens
• Strong background in biophysical characterization (e.g., stability, oligomeric state, SPR, ITC, BLI) to assess protein quality and guide construct, purification, and ligand strategies.
• Hands‑on experience in protein crystallization and small‑molecule co‑crystallization, including condition screening, optimization, and crystal improvement.
• A track record reflecting experimental rigor, creativity, and productivity in protein sciences and structural biology.
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, highly collaborative, and multi‑project research environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with commitment to collaborative science, knowledge sharing, and inclusive teamwork.

Requirements

• Experience working with various protein classes and multi-protein complexes, including strategies to stabilize and optimize samples for downstream structural, biochemical and biophysical analysis
• Hands‑on experience with protein purification and crystallization instrumentation, including chromatography systems, crystallization platforms, and automated crystal imaging and screening technologies.
• Experience with cryo‑electron microscopy workflows including sample optimization and grid preparation
• Experience applying ML/AI‑enabled approaches to protein engineering, construct design, or structure determination.
• PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
• Work Location Assignment: On Premise

Benefits

Additional Information

Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development, La Jolla, CA Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development in La Jolla, CA is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Structural Biology and Protein Sciences (SBPS) Group within the Department of Oncology Medicinal Chemistry. The SBPS mission is to enable oncology drug discovery through expert protein production, biophysical interrogation, and structure-based insight, delivering high quality protein tools and data required to accelerate medicinal chemistry and translational decisions. The position will primarily support the small molecule portfolio, with opportunities to enable emerging targets and novel therapeutic modalities.

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