Pfizer

Principal Scientist - Computational Chemistry

Pfizer$106K — $176K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in computational chemistry or relevant discipline
  • 2-3 years postdoc and/or 2+ years industrial experience as a computational chemist
  • Proven track record of contributing independently to research projects
  • Expertise in multiple computational chemistry domains like structure-based design, QSAR, or molecular dynamics
  • Familiarity with targeted therapeutic families such as GPCR or Kinase is advantageous
  • Strong skills in modern physics-based and ML-based models
  • Proficient in Linux, high-performance computing, and scripting languages including Python.

Responsibilities

  • Drive drug discovery projects as an independent researcher and team member
  • Utilize a range of computational techniques like docking and molecular dynamics
  • Develop new computational methodologies to tackle drug discovery challenges
  • Influence design decisions through hypothesis generation and evaluation
  • Collaborate with diverse scientific disciplines for innovative solutions

Benefits

  • Relocation support available
  • On-premise work location
  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions
  • Paid vacation, holidays, personal days, and medical leave
  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage
Full Job Description

WHAT YOU WILL ACHIEVE

You will be a computational chemist as an integral member of Medicinal Chemistry teams to apply computational techniques to impact drug discovery projects.

You will generate and evaluate hypotheses to assist molecular design decisions and influence project direction by deploying and/or developing computational methods and workflows.

A strong understanding of fundamental physical chemistry, biophysical chemistry, statistical mechanics, macromolecular structures and function, and familiarity with relevant modern computational models and strong scripting skills are required.

HOW YOU WILL ACHIEVE IT

  • As an independent researcher and integral member of project teams, you will apply your experience and knowledge to determine the appropriate computational techniques to best drive projects forward.
  •  You will apply a wide variety of computational approaches including docking, cofolding, molecular dynamics, foundational AI models, both physics and AI/ML approach methods to conformational analyses, hit identification/optimization, structure-based drug design, ligand-based design, pharmacophore models, and QSAR modeling to generate and evaluate hypotheses and influence design decisions.
  • You will also develop novel computational approaches and workflow to solve project-specific and general challenges in drug discovery

QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience

  • Ph. D. in computational chemistry or relevant discipline
  • 2-3 years postdoc experience and/or 2+ year industrial experience as a computational chemist
  • Experience of contributing to research projects independently

Technical Skills Requirements

  • Extensive knowledge in one or more areas of the computational chemistry disciplines, such as structure-based design, ligand-based design, quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, QSAR, homology modeling, pharmacophore modeling, etc.
  • Good knowledge in target family of therapeutically interests, such GPCR, Kinase and Intramembrane receptors, or Ion Channels is a plus.
  • Knowledge in other Comp Chem specialty areas such as Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacodynamics, Drug Safety, Chemical Biology, Computational Biology, and Bioinformatics.
  • Develop innovative solutions to address problems in anticipation of undesired outcomes.  Identify the "best solution" to drive project forward at a given time.
  • Strong knowledge in modern physics-based and ML-based computational models.
  • Familiar with Linux operation, High-performance computing environment and strong scripting skills including shells and Python. Familiarity with coding agents, context engineering, and multi-agent workflows would be a plus.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate with other scientific disciplines to bring forward novel solutions that impact project progression.
  • Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity. Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how these tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use

Additional Information:

  • Relocation support available
  • Work Location Assignment: On Premise
  • Last Day to Apply: July 24, 2026
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $106,000.00 to $176,600.00. 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.

Candidates must be authorized to be employed in the U.S. by any employer.

U.S. work visa sponsorship (such as TN, O-1, H-1B, etc.) is not available for this role now or in the future.

About Pfizer

Hospira, Inc. is the provider of injectable drugs and infusion technologies. Through its broad, integrated portfolio, Hospira is uniquely positioned to Advance Wellness™ by improving patient and caregiver safety while reducing healthcare costs. The company is headquartered in Lake Forest, Ill., and has approximately 16,000 employees.

Pfizer Careers

Joining Pfizer’s global team offers more than just job opportunities; it’s a chance to be a part of a company that leads with science and innovates for better health. As a leading biopharmaceutical company, Pfizer is at the forefront of transforming lives through innovation, leadership, and diversity. Work You’ll Do At Pfizer, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, engaging in work that enhances global health and saves lives. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, professional growth, and inclusivity, making every day a learning opportunity. Here, your skills will be honed, your professional acumen will be expanded, and you will be part of a team that values the power of diverse insights to drive success. Pfizer’s Leadership and Growth Lead and innovate with Pfizer, where we value the growth of each employee. Our leadership is committed to providing employees with the training and resources needed to excel in their careers. Pfizer offers a variety of career paths, including roles in research, marketing, finance, technology, and more, each offering a unique blend of challenges and rewards. Internship and Employment Opportunities Start your career with Pfizer through our internship programs or dive straight into a full-time position. We are hiring individuals who are passionate about healthcare and who seek to make a difference in the world. Our internships provide invaluable industry experience, networking opportunities, and a potential pathway to full-time employment. Benefits and Culture Pfizer is dedicated to fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued and can achieve their full potential. We offer competitive benefits packages that support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees and their families. At Pfizer, you’ll find a culture that encourages collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning. Join Our Team Explore the numerous job opportunities at Pfizer by searching open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for driven, curious, and innovative team players who are ready to advance their careers in a transformative company. Stay Connected Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await at Pfizer. Interview and Resume Tips Prepare for your future with Pfizer by utilizing our resources for resume building and interview preparation. We provide guidance on how to effectively showcase your skills and experiences to align with the needs of a position at Pfizer. Our goal is to help you succeed in securing a role that suits your professional goals and personal growth aspirations. Pfizer: A Place Where You Can Make a Difference Every position at Pfizer contributes to our mission of making the world a healthier place. Whether through direct patient care, research innovation, or corporate roles that support our operations, your work will have global impact. Join us in our journey to change lives—explore Pfizer careers today.
Learn more about Pfizer
Size
79,000 employees
Market Cap
$285.9 billion
Industry
Net Income
$9.6 billion
Founded
1849
5 Year Trend
+9%
Revenue
$41.9 billion
NASDAQ

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