Pfizer

Sr. Scientist, Primary Pharmacology

Pfizer$93K — $156K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. or equivalent experience in drug discovery (chemistry/biochemistry/pharmacology) OR MS with 7+ years relevant experience.
  • Solid understanding of protein biochemistry and pharmacology.
  • Hands-on expertise with various in vitro assay formats (e.g. HTRF, ELISA FP, BRET).
  • Proven ability to build strong collaborative relationships across teams and disciplines.
  • Adept at thriving in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and quickly acquiring new skills.
  • Highly motivated, organized, with excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

  • Shape and support hit identification for small molecule drug discovery projects through in vitro pharmacology strategies.
  • Independently design and perform in vitro assays to drive lead identification and mechanistic pharmacology.
  • Design innovative experiments to explore target binding, structure function relationships, and mechanisms of action.
  • Stay updated on state-of-the-art scientific advancements and apply knowledge to enhance internal capabilities.
  • Analyze data and clearly communicate results to project teams and collaborators.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-disciplinary groups including Disease Biology, Chemistry, and Structural Biology.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Paid vacation, holidays, and personal days.
  • Paid caregiver/parental leave and medical leave.
  • 401(k) plan with matching contributions and retirement savings contribution.
  • Relocation support available.
Full Job Description
What You Will Achieve

The successful candidate will join our Discovery Biology and Pharmacology (DBP) group in Groton, CT and combine expertise in pharmacology and target biology to support and accelerate small molecule hit identification and lead discovery and optimization. Bringing strong technical, creative, and problem-solving skills, the individual will work collaboratively with project teams to develop hit identification strategies, design and execute in vitro plate-based screen assays, and investigate mechanistic pharmacology. As part of this early discovery group, the individual should be excited to collaborate closely with discovery biology, structural biology, and chemistry teams to support a broad portfolio encompassing disease indications in Internal Medicine.

In this role, you will:
  • Shape and support novel hit identification and optimization for small molecule drug discovery projects through application of in vitro pharmacology strategies for target-based and phenotypic screening.
  • Independently design, develop, and perform in vitro assays for diverse protein targets to drive lead identification, SAR, and mechanistic pharmacology using a combination of biochemical and cellular systems.
  • Design creative experiments and leverage diverse approaches to investigate target binding and engagement, structure-function relationships, and molecular mechanism of action.
  • Maintain a strong knowledge base in state-of-the-art technical developments and scientific advancements in the field and apply these innovatively to advance internal capabilities.
  • Design and execute experiments, analyze data, write reports, and communicate results in a clear and timely fashion to collaborators and project teams
  • Be excited by working with cross-disciplinary groups (Disease Biology, Chemistry, Computational Biology, Structural Biology), be adept at building partnerships and collaborations, and be team oriented.


Here Is What You Need (Minimum Requirements)
  • Ph.D. or equivalent with experience relevant to drug discovery in chemistry, biochemistry, and/or pharmacology OR MS with 7+ years of relevant industry experience
  • Solid understanding in protein biochemistry and pharmacology.
  • Hands on expertise with multiple in vitro assay formats (e.g. HTRF, ELISA FP, BRET, radioligand binding, etc) including assay troubleshooting, development, and application.
  • Demonstrated ability to forge strong collaborative relationships inside and outside immediate team as well as across disciplines.
  • An ability to thrive in a collaborative, fast paced, and dynamic environment and quickly learn new skills and knowledge on the job.
  • Be highly motivated, highly organized and possess excellent computer, oral and written communication skills.

Bonus Points If You Have (Preferred Requirements)
  • Experience with multiple target classes in a drug discovery setting (e.g. membrane receptors, enzymes, transcription factors).
  • Experience with immortalized cells and with molecular biology techniques such as RT-qPCR, transfection, and western blotting is a plus.
  • Strong bases in protein chemistry with knowledge of associated disciplines such as molecular and cellular biology, structural biology, biophysics and chemistry.
  • Experience with cardiovascular and metabolic signaling pathways


PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Sitting, standing, lifting, bending, and walking. Ability to perform practical laboratory bench work and work on a computer (while standing or sitting). Ability to perform mathematical calculations and analyze and interpret data.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

  • Candidate may periodically be asked to travel to the Pfizer Cambridge, MA site to meet project team members and to attend appropriate meetings and conferences.
  • Candidate must comply with all laboratory safety practices

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
Last day to apply: July 12, 2026
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $93,600.00 to $156,000.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer's Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 12.5% 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.

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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