Postdoctoral Fellow, Biophysics Small Molecule Discovery

ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking a driven and accomplished postdoctoral fellow to join the Biophysics group within the Pfizer Oncology Research Unit (ORU) in La Jolla, California. This role offers a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with the ADC Chemistry and Tumor Biology teams to advance innovative drug design in oncology.

Under the guidance of experienced mentors with strong academic credentials, the successful candidate will operate with a high degree of independence to characterize drug-protein and protein-protein interactions using both labelled and label-free biophysical methods. Additional characterization may involve biochemical or cellular techniques, contributing to a deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms in cancer therapeutics.

The preferred candidate is motivated, talented, and an innovative scientist, with a passion for tackling complex challenges in both fundamental research and drug discovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong scientific background, demonstrated expertise in biophysical binding methods and protein sciences, and a proven track record of impactful contributions, including publications in leading scientific journals.
 

This role involves close collaboration with chemists and biologists to deepen our understanding of drug targets and explore novel small-molecule drug modalities. Success in this position requires not only technical excellence but also a collaborative mindset and a drive to contribute to high-impact science.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work under minimal supervision to characterize small molecule-protein interactions using label and label-free biophysical methods (SPR, ITC, DSF/ CETSA, TR-FRET)

• Regularly communicate data with multi-disciplinary teams as well as provide scientific insights into kinetics and thermodynamics of protein-ligand interactions

• Display growing knowledge and understanding of other disciplines relevant to early-stage drug discovery

• Identify and integrate emerging biophysical technologies to address challenges associated with novel targets/modalities

• Translate results from structural biology experiments to elucidate cell-based mechanisms of action and support the design of small molecules

• Present findings in high impact publications or conferences

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Ph.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, or closely related field

• Successful record of scientific accomplishments evidenced by scientific publications and/or presentations with at least one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed journal

• Willingness to make a minimum 2-year commitment

• No more than 2 years of post-degree experience.

• Demonstrated expertise in both label and label-free biophysical methods (SPR, ITC, DSF, TR-FRET) for characterization of protein-ligand interactions

• Hands-on experience in plate-based pharmacology assays

• Experience in handling 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, with advanced interpersonal skills to facilitate knowledge sharing and scientific discussions

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in characterization of bifunctional modalities and bidentate interactions using biophysical methods is desired but not a must

• Basic understanding of structure-activity relationships (SAR) pertaining to ligand optimization

• Experience working collaboratively across biological and chemical discipline

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Work Location Assignment: On Premise

Relocation Support. No

Last day to apply: September 30, 2025

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $62,700.00 to $104,500.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of the base salary. 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.