Zoetis Inc

Senior Scientist, Virologist/Molecular Biologist - Global Biologics, Swine

Zoetis Inc • $95K — $115K *
Kalamazoo, MI 49009In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's or PhD in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or related field required; Bachelor's with applicable experience considered.
  • Extensive training in molecular techniques, particularly virology and cell culture.
  • Experience in hypothesis-driven laboratory research essential.
  • Strong communication skills for collaboration and presentations required.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) needed.

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute laboratory studies focused on swine vaccine research.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address vaccine development needs.
  • Mentor colleagues in laboratory skills and viral vaccine development.
  • Contribute to identifying immunogenic components of viral pathogens.
  • Utilize microbiological and molecular techniques to advance vaccine development.
  • Maintain high standards of lab safety and documentation in research activities.
  • Prepare presentations and publications to support organizational goals.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work with state-of-the-art research methods.
  • Collaborative environment with cross-functional teams.
  • Mentorship and guidance opportunities within the organization.
  • Chance to contribute to vaccine development for the global swine industry.
Full Job Description
Role Description:
Senior Scientist or Principal Scientist, Virologist/Molecular Biologist - Global Biologics, Swine
Zoetis Veterinary Medicine Research and Development (VMRD), Swine Biologicals group, located in Kalamazoo, MI, is seeking a Scientist or Senior Scientist specializing in Virology or Molecular Virology. This role focuses on advancing vaccine discovery and development to introduce new products to the global swine industry. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in both classic virology and molecular biology, including in silico sequence analysis (such as evolutionary studies and phylogenetics) and genomic manipulation. They should demonstrate a solid foundation in hypothesis-driven research and data interpretation, with hands-on experience in cell culture, virus propagation, and molecular biology techniques. Responsibilities will include conducting and supporting research activities related to the development of novel swine vaccines. The candidate will apply their skills both directly, through laboratory work, and indirectly, by supporting and mentoring colleagues to achieve vaccine development goals.

This position is based in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Position Responsibilities:
  • The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge and experience in microbiology, with a strong emphasis on virology, molecular biology, and immunology. They should be skilled in vaccine antigen identification, genetic sequence comparison, and the manipulation or modification of viruses. Additional expertise in constructing vaccine strains and developing novel technologies --such as chimeric antigen design, vector construction, and gene editing-- is highly desirable.
  • In this role, the candidate will work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team as a Scientist or Senior Scientist to advance swine vaccine research. They will collaborate with colleagues to conduct both basic and applied research addressing unmet needs in vaccine development. While the position does not have direct reports, the individual may guide and mentor other scientists in laboratory skills, including viral vaccine development and characterization. They will play an active role in developing research strategies, formulating testable hypotheses, and driving the discovery and development of viral biologic products.
  • Key responsibilities include designing and executing hypothesis-driven laboratory studies, reviewing and interpreting relevant scientific literature, and applying this knowledge to research goals. The candidate will contribute expertise in identifying immunogenic components of swine viral pathogens, understanding viral evolution and epidemiology as it relates to vaccines, and characterizing vaccine targets using established and innovative technologies. Their work will support the development of both live and non-replicating vaccine approaches for swine.
  • The individual will provide hands-on technical expertise, routinely applying a range of microbiological and molecular techniques such as cell culture, viral propagation, genetic manipulation, and characterization. They will work closely with upstream, downstream, and functional partners, using state-of-the-art methods to better understand viruses and advance the development of novel vaccines. Projects will focus on generating and identifying new viral vaccine candidates.
  • Throughout their work, the Scientist or Senior Scientist will demonstrate a logical approach to problem-solving, maintain high standards of laboratory safety and documentation, and regularly consult scientific literature to enhance their understanding of animal diseases and emerging technologies.
  • Strong communication skills are essential, as the candidate will collaborate across teams within Zoetis and contribute to vaccine development efficiently and effectively. They will also prepare internal and external presentations and publications to support team, organizational, and personal goals.


Preferred Experience:
  • Expertise in maintenance of and experimentation with cell culture, virus propagation and characterization, and viral vector modification. Direct experience with growth and manipulation of important viral pathogens of relevance to swine is desired.
  • Experience with molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, and microbe manipulation, quantification, and cloning. Experience with genetic sequence analysis and knowledge of bioinformatics tools/databases, BLAST, and genetic engineering software (ie. DNASTAR/Lasergene, etc,) is desired.
  • Experience with the vaccine discovery process or adjacent space is desired.
  • Experience with genomic based approaches used for identification of virulence factors and candidate gene-deleted or protein-based vaccine approaches (Ingenuity Pathways Analysis, VFdb, IEdb, and AlfaFold) is preferred.
  • Experience with current methods for analysis of viral phylodynamics (phylogenetics, population dynamics and evolution) and B and T cell epitope prediction is desired.


Minimum Qualifications:
  • Master's or PhD degree in Virology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field is required. Candidates with a Bachelor's degree and significant, relevant hands-on laboratory research experience will also be considered.
  • Extensive training and experience in molecular techniques are essential, particularly in virology, molecular or genotypic characterization, and cell culture modification. Experience with sequence analysis, immunology, and epitope identification is highly desirable.
  • Candidates must demonstrate experience in conducting hypothesis-driven laboratory research. They should be able to apply their practical laboratory skills to research projects, working both independently and as part of a team within their area of expertise. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.
  • A working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) is also required.


Full time

Regular

Colleague

About Zoetis Inc

Zoetis Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Zoetis Inc, a global leader in animal health services, where innovation, leadership, and care converge to advance animal healthcare worldwide. At Zoetis, we offer unparalleled job opportunities that foster professional growth and personal achievement.

Work You’ll Do

At Zoetis Inc, you will be part of a culture that values diversity, innovation, and leadership. Our team is committed to delivering targeted solutions that enhance animal health through a broad range of products and services. As a member of our team, you will collaborate with skilled professionals to drive change and lead the industry in strategic directions.

Career Growth and Development

Zoetis Inc is dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. We provide extensive training and development programs, including leadership training and diversity workshops, to ensure our team members are equipped for success in their careers and are prepared to meet the challenges of the global market.

Innovative Work Environment

Our commitment to innovation is at the core of our operations. Zoetis Inc is a place where creative thinking and practical solutions meet to create a thriving work environment. Our employees are encouraged to pursue innovative projects that align with our mission of nurturing the world and humankind by advancing animal care.

Join Our Team

Explore job opportunities and open positions across various fields within Zoetis Inc. Whether you’re looking for a professional role in scientific research, marketing, sales, or customer service, we have a position that will match your skills and passions. Our hiring process is designed to identify and attract passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with Zoetis Inc through our internship programs. Gain hands-on experience, develop essential industry skills, and build a professional network that will serve as a valuable resource throughout your career. Internships at Zoetis are a gateway to full-time employment and offer a unique insight into the animal health industry.

Benefits and Culture

Choosing a career at Zoetis Inc means more than just employment. It means being part of a team that values your well-being and professional development. Our employees enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their health, well-being, and financial future. At Zoetis, you’ll work in an inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging and encourages collaborative and independent work.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest career tips, industry insights, and company news—all from the people who work at Zoetis Inc. Subscribe to our careers blog and personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences.

Apply Now

Ready to take the next step in your career? Search for open positions that match your skills and interests on our Jobs at Zoetis Inc page. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and join a world-leading team in animal health.

Zoetis Inc—Where Careers Grow

At Zoetis Inc, we’re not just about animal health; we’re about supporting your health and career ambitions. See what exciting and rewarding opportunities await you in a company that’s committed to growth, innovation, and leadership in the animal health industry.
Learn more about Zoetis Inc
Size
12,100 employees
Market Cap
$67.3 billion
Industry
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Net Income
$1.6 billion
5 Year Trend
+9.7%
Revenue
$6.6 billion
NASDAQ
ZTS
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at Zoetis Inc

More Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Jobs

Find similar Senior Scientist, Virologist/Molecular Biologist - Global Biologics, Swine jobs:

NationwideKalamazoo, MI