Director, External Science Lead, Biologics Discovery and Design
Role Summary
Discovery Network (DN) External Science Lead Biologics Discovery and Design supports Pfizer's strategic objectives by integrating external innovation with internal capabilities to drive breakthroughs in protein therapeutic discovery and design. You will partner with BioMedicine Design (BMD) and engage the global life sciences ecosystem to source and advance technologies in protein therapeutic discovery, design, optimization, and early developability, including AI/ML-enabled approaches. You will work across all Research Units (RUs) to ensure broad applicability and portfolio impact, leading diligence, governance, and partnership execution aligned with strategic priorities.
Role Responsibilities
Lead global networking and sourcing of external biologics discovery and protein engineering technologies
Identify and evaluate AI/ML-enabled platforms for protein design, structure prediction, and design-make-test workflows
Partner with Bio-Molecular Design to define high-impact use cases and integration pathways into internal workflows
Drive alignment and adoption across all Research Units (RUs) and partner lines
Shepherd prioritized opportunities through governance and deal processes with Business Development (BD) and Legal
Leverage internal capabilities to position Pfizer as a partner-of-choice and enable collaboration success
Represent Pfizer externally at key biologics and platform technology forums
Minimum Qualifications
PhD or equivalent advanced degree with 5+ years of relevant industry experience, including significant experience in biologics discovery, protein engineering, or related disciplines
Experience in business development, alliance management, or technology partnerships
Knowledge of early developability and biologics optimization considerations
Experience evaluating external scientific opportunities and driving prioritization
Experience working in cross-functional, matrix organizations
Strong communication skills, verbal, written, and presentation, with experience communicating to different business groups/lines and influencing senior stakeholders
Experience using common AI tools, including generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, to support problem solving and enhance productivity
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in pharmaceutical drug development (Idea to Candidate) process
Previous experience in biotechnology companies and/or venture investment
Experience in process development, formulation, or drug product technologies
Breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact
Non-standard Work Schedule, Travel Or Environment Requirements
Travel to partnering conferences, scientific meetings, Pfizer and collaborator sites required approximately 20% of the time
Work Location Assignment
This is a hybrid role requiring you to live within commuting distance and work on-site an average of 2.5 days per week or more as needed.
Pay
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $176,600.00 to $294,300.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 20.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share-based long-term incentive program.
Benefits
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).
Relocation Assistance
Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA.