ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking a creative, highly motivated chemist with biocatalysis experience to join our Chemical Research and Development (CRD) laboratories based in Groton, CT. The successful candidate will play a role in the development of innovative enzymatic processes to key precursors in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) candidates in our portfolio.  They will also demonstrate a passion for the development of cutting edge biocatalysis technologies, in addition to having a proven track record of productivity in generating high-quality technical and scientific results.

CRD, as part of Pfizer Research and Development, is responsible for the development of synthetic processes and technology for the production of APIs. CRD scientists engage in all facets of development from small scale synthesis in support of medicinal chemistry programs, to the development of the commercial synthetic route. CRD scientists partner with manufacturing specialists for API synthesis in kilo-lab and pilot plant facilities, as well as provide support for technology transfer to Pfizer manufacturing sites and third-party facilities.

The successful candidate will join the Biocatalysis Center of Excellence (BCE) within the Process Chemistry group as a subject matter expert and laboratory-based experimentalist.  They will provide screening and biocatalytic reaction optimization support for the development of innovative synthetic routes, workflows and processes.  They will partner with chemists, analysts, biochemists and chemical engineers from across Pfizer R&D and manufacturing organizations to design novel enzyme platforms, participate in enzyme engineering programs and optimize enzymes to fit manufacturing process targets in terms of cost, robustness and quality.  The ability to work on multi-disciplinary teams involving chemists, analysts, engineers, and technologists is essential.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Independently develop new enzymatic platforms, protocols and procedures, and evolves workflows that are compatible with process chemistry targets and keeping up with technology advances in Biocatalysis.
• Expert use of enzyme classes relevant to biocatalysis applications in Pharma, including enzyme screening, protein engineering, reaction kinetics, and scale up of enzymatic reactions.
• Independently perform scientific experiments with clear objectives and maintains high compliance in the use of electronic notebook to document all their research.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions towards proposing innovative enzymatic and organic reactions for API synthesis. Maintain contemporary knowledge of relevant primary literature in biocatalysis and synthetic chemistry.
• Responsible for coaching, mentoring, training, supervising, and developing staff when assigned; participate in recruiting when needed.
• As a strong team player, partner with chemists, analysts, and chemical engineers from across Pfizer R&D and manufacturing organizations to design novel enzyme processes.
• Prepares research reports and technical presentations and external publications.

QUAIFICATIONS

Required Education/Experience

• PhD in chemistry with 0-5 years' experience in the pharma industry
• Experience with applying biocatalysis in a laboratory setting; and familiar with the development of pharmaceutical processes using Biocatalysis

Desirable Technical Skills

• Subject matter expert in the use of a broad range of enzymes in organic chemistry and enzyme engineering.
• Working experience designing and optimizing biocatalytic reactions, high-throughput screening in multi-well plates and developing new enzyme platforms.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work in a standard laboratory environment performing experiments in a laboratory fume hood.  Ability to perform complex data analysis.
• Effective communication within a multidisciplinary team of colleagues.
• Self-aware: will seek input from others on ideas and problem-solving; uses others as a resource.
• Change agile: capable of quickly adapting to changes in project direction.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

Will be required to occasionally travel domestically and/or internationally (0-5%) to support technology development and/or clinical manufacturing activities as well as technology transfer to commercial manufacturing.

Relocation support available

Work Location Assignment: On Premise

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $88,300.00 to $147,100.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participat