Director, Analytical Characterization, ADC Discovery

ROLE SUMMARY

Pfizer ORU (Oncology Research Unit) is seeking a Director to lead the Bioanalytical team responsible for Large and Small-molecule characterization in our ADC Discovery organization. The Bioanalytical team is an integral part of Protein and Bioanalytical Sciences (PBS) group within Pfizer ORU. This multidisciplinary team is at the forefront of characterizing the small molecules, antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and novel protein technologies. The team responsibilities include stability testing of new therapeutic compositions, the bioanalytical assessment of ADC payload release, cellular deposition, exploration of new delivery technology formats, and assessment of binding affinity for both small and large molecules. The appointed leader will drive a dynamic and collaborative team, focusing on expanding technological capabilities to enhance the capacity and efficiency of key deliverables, crucial for advancing the discovery of novel ADCs aimed at cancer treatment. As a strategic and operational cornerstone, the team leader will collaborate with other senior members of the ADC Discovery Research Group to build and drive Pfizer's ADC strategy and advance Pfizer's preclinical pipeline.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead a team of 6+ scientists including PhD level.
• Create and manage sub-team prioritization efforts within the group to ensure optimal portfolio progression and scientific rigor.
• Develop the strategies to improve capacity and efficiency of platform technologies through innovation and application of new technologies e.g. automation, platforms, workflows and externalization.
• Leverage new technologies and existing bioanalytical approaches to characterize protein biologics and ADC mechanisms of action
• Work closely with early Research and Process Sciences departments to balance priorities and ensure efficient transfer of knowledge and processes from Discovery to the Pharmaceutical Sciences team
• Represent the team in governance forums and advocate for teams’ visibility
• Provide supervision and mentorship, establishing the vision, implementation of new technologies and enabling personal growth of team members
• Promote a culture of professionalism and collaboration focused on patient outcomes in alignment with company goals and values

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemistry or related discipline
• Minimum 7+ years with Ph.D. or 9+ years post MS related oncology or chemistry experience in industry, including technical and scientific experience in drug discovery and preclinical development
• Expertise in ADCs, including understanding of drug linker and small molecule biochemical conjugation, and in vitro and in vivo molecule stability characterization
• Expertise in protein-protein and small molecule binding kinetics using BLI or SPR technologies
• Expertise in analytical method development across for various biotherapeutic modalities.
• Deep understanding of antibody binding behavior with antigens and Fc receptors, including FcRn.
• Technical expertise in mass spectrometry in both large and small molecules across various vendor platforms
• CMC experience in project progression from research to development  
• Deep experience in building, leading and directly managing teams, capable of giving feedback, coach, mentor, and develop employees 
• Demonstrated track record in collaborative research in ADC Oncology drug discovery programs with strong business acumen and communication skills
• Ability to collaborate across teams and a variety of disciplines to create and communicate scientific strategy and priorities

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong track record of scientific accomplishments in industry as evidenced by publications or other equivalent achievements
• Experience getting results through creativity and unique problem solving  

Relocation support available

Work Location Assignment: Bothell, Washington

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $161,600.00 to $269,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 20.0% 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 leav