ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking an Associate Scientist to join the CRD Automation & Robotics group within Chemical Research and Development (CRD). This group will develop an automated, robotic laboratory infrastructure that delivers a 10-fold productivity gain including a 50% cycle time reduction for key CRD workflows as well as driving enhanced sustainability. They will create a synergistic data infrastructure to promote rich, systemic, automated data generation and curation.  They will harness machine learning to drive unattended decisions (self-optimization and self-correction) as well as to aid in experiment design. These goals will be achieved through partnership with other disciplines including data scientists, analytical chemists, engineers, and process chemists to develop digital and robotic automation platforms.

The successful candidate will develop and deploy automation and technology processes for pharmaceutical drug candidates in a laboratory setting.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• The successful candidate will help design, prototype and develop laboratory automation solutions for process development applications as part of a multi-disciplinary team.
• Assist with design and testing of modular hardware to facilitate data-rich experimentation.
• Enable use of digital tools for machine learning and self-optimization to enhance automation goals.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to implement automated equipment and develop novel solutions for execution of laboratory experimentation.
• Innovate with academic and industrial collaborators to identify unmet needs and develop novel solutions.
• Partner with process chemists and engineers on suitable experimentation to deliver CRD workflows for small molecule drug development.
• Implement a robotic control system for orchestration of multiple workstreams using modular laboratory equipment.
• Enable data management systems to retrieve, process and store relevant lab data from both manual and automated experiments.
• Participation with departmental initiatives, continuous improvement teams, scientific presentations, and external collaborations to influence scientific and business impact of the group.

QUALIFICATIONS

• M.S. in Chemical, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related Mechatronics discipline (or within 6 months of completing a program) or an B.S. with 3+ years’ experience in a related field. No industrial experience necessary.
• Experience with robotic arm programming to enable automated task sequences.
• Demonstrated ability to design and develop creative solutions, ideally targeted towards application for laboratory automation.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving skills at the interface of chemistry, engineering and data science.
• Experience with CAD designs and prototyping new equipment.
• Experience in integrating automated hardware and analytical devices, e.g. XYZ cartesian and/or 6/7-axes robotic arms with process analytical technologies.
• Knowledge of coding languages such as Python or C++ for automation controls, data management and/or AI/ML applications.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, the ability to effectively work with a multi-disciplinary team comprised of chemists, chemical engineers, computer scientist and data scientists. 

  
 

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Laboratory work requiring standing.
• Working at a computer.
• Ability to use sound scientific judgment and analyze data to advance programs.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Travel is required on occasion to support external collaborations, cross-site technology development or to participate in scientific conferences. 

Work Location Assignment: On Premise, with relocation support available

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $64,600.00 to $107,600.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of the base salary. 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.

Research and Development