USA - Bench Scientist - II - USD

Pfizer’s BioMedicine Design (BMD) organization is seeking a highly motivated Biochemist/Molecular Biologist to join the Biotherapeutic Expression and Purification (BEP) group in Cambridge, MA.

This position plays a critical role in a fast-paced DNA production and protein expression research laboratory. The BEP team supports non-GMP transient protein lead production across Pfizer's diverse biotherapeutics discovery portfolio, enabling research and preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies across multiple therapeutic areas.

The successful candidate will provide DNA production support for protein expression and purification activities, leveraging expertise in molecular biology techniques, nucleic acid production, and analytical methods. This role involves large-scale plasmid DNA production, bacterial culture, quality control testing, and collaboration with scientists supporting downstream protein expression and purification workflows.

Key Responsibilities:

DNA Production & Molecular Biology

• Independently execute high-throughput plasmid DNA production workflows, including:

  • Bacterial culture growth

  • Plasmid purification

  • Downstream sample handling

• Perform large-scale DNA production activities using standardized protocols.

• Manage plasmid DNA inventory, storage, and tracking within electronic databases and sample management systems.

Automation & Laboratory Operations

• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot automated instrumentation, including:

  • Biotage systems

  • Opentrons platforms

  • Related liquid-handling technologies

• Support high-throughput laboratory operations while maintaining quality and efficiency.

Quality Control & Sequencing Support

• Conduct DNA quality control testing, including:

  • Gel electrophoresis

  • Nucleic acid quantification

  • Purity assessment

  • Endotoxin testing

• Prepare and submit samples for next-generation sequencing (NGS).

• Assist with basic review and interpretation of sequencing results.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and complete records in electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs).

• Ensure documentation complies with laboratory and organizational standards.

• Adhere to laboratory safety requirements and regulatory guidelines.

Collaboration & Continuous Improvement

• Partner with expression and purification scientists to ensure timely DNA delivery for downstream applications.

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance:

  • Throughput

  • Reproducibility

  • Operational efficiency

• Communicate project status, priorities, and potential risks to support production timelines and deadlines.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in biological sciences, molecular biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, or related science field

• 2 years of experience with molecular biology techniques, including plasmid preparation, nucleic acid purification, quantitative DNA analysis

• Proficiency in DNA quality control methods, including gel electrophoresis and sequencing sample preparation.

• Experience operating automated or semi-automated laboratory instrumentation.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a high-throughput environment.

• Experience using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and sample tracking systems.

• High attention to detail, particularly when performing repetitive, high-volume tasks.

• Strong communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills.

• Commitment to laboratory safety, quality, and compliance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation and sequencing workflows.

• Familiarity with Python scripting for data analysis or laboratory workflow automation.

• Experience working with 96-well and/or 384-well high-throughput plate-based workflows.

• Familiarity with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and sample management platforms such as:

  • FreezerPro

  • Genedata