Sr. Associate Scientist MSAT Cell Culture

Use your expertise to help Pfizer deliver breakthroughs that change patients’ lives. In this role, you will develop robust, scalable, and high-productivity cell culture processes for manufacturing biological therapeutics across early- and late-phase clinical programs. Your deep understanding of cell culture principles and practices will guide critical decision-making and drive innovation within a collaborative team environment.

About the role

The Senior Associate Scientist in the upstream group of the Manufacturing Sciences and Technologies department (MSAT) at Sanford supports vaccine DSI/DS manufacturing, including launch, commercial activities (robustness, investigations, continued process validation, tech transfer), and next-generation process development. You will also contribute to MSAT and network initiatives aimed at improving internal operations and scientific development. Work is primarily non-GMP, lab-based, and team-oriented, adhering to business, quality, and compliance objectives.

Responsibilities

• Comply with all safety, training, and data integrity expectations.
• Maintain a clean laboratory environment and support team 5S activities.
• Order supplies and maintain inventories as directed.
• Safely operate and maintain laboratory equipment and instruments according to Job Aids, SOPs, and Batch Records.
• Assist in the development of Job Aids, SOPs, and Batch Records.
• Perform shiftwork and weekend work as needed to meet business objectives.
• Perform pre-work for, attend, and actively participate in all required meetings; facilitate Tier 1 meetings as needed.
• Perform data entry and verification.
• Manage individual projects (scientific or otherwise) without direct oversight, including developing objectives, timelines, and progress reporting.
• Perform and/or lead Operational Excellence (OpEx) activities.
• Provide feedback and improvements to PCT in IMEX workshops.
• Support department OpEx initiatives and train others on equipment as appropriate.
• Provide feedback and suggestions for On-the-Job Training (OJT).
• Share study results, conclusions, or project information within the PCT via PowerPoint presentations.
• Execute lab studies and document results as a member of a team; understand the purpose and design of individual studies.
• Lead or participate in M1 investigations.
• Identify issues with lab equipment and lab studies; troubleshoot lab equipment issues with assistance.
• Author technical documents with assistance (e.g., memos).
• Participate in model/process development studies.
• Accommodate last-minute changes to study design/execution.
• Understand current project milestones and timelines.

Requirements

• Degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Bachelor’s degree with 3+ years of relevant experience, or M.S./Ph.D. with 0+ years of relevant experience (may include skill development in academic or industry settings).
• Hands-on expertise in microbial or mammalian cell culture.
• Proficiency in small-scale cell culture, fermentation bioreactor, and WAVE process development.
• Strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, and cell culture techniques.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, particularly in report writing.
• Proficiency with personal computers, including word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, and relevant scientific software.
• Ability to analyze and interpret data accurately.

Preferred Qualifications

• General knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience using common AI tools (e.g., generative technologies such as ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot) to support problem-solving and enhance productivity.
• Demonstrated curiosity for exploring how AI tools can improve outcomes and understanding of responsible AI practices, including risk management and ethical use.

Physical/Mental Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted and up to 50 lbs assisted.
• Periods of standing, sitting, walking, and bending for long durations.
• Ability to perform mathematical calculations and complex data analysis.

Schedule

• 1st shift position with a flexible schedule (8 AM to 5 PM, depending on process needs).
• Occasional weekend and off-shift work required.
• Rare business travel may be required.
• Work Location Assignment: On Premise.

Pay

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $68,600.00 to $114,300.00. This role is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of the base salary.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.
• 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.
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and eligibility.