Scientist – Molecular Discovery
May 15, 2019 - June 16, 2019
Pfizer Integrative Biotechnology Group (IBG) located in Pearl River, NY is within the Oncology division of Pfizer Worldwide Research & Development. IBG is dedicated to developing the next generation oncology therapeutics and therapeutic combinations by employing a multidisciplinary approach to target cancer cell cycle and modulate tumor microenvironment. We are seeking a qualified candidate at the Scientist level to join the group to contribute to drug discovery efforts by applying functional genomics and advanced molecular biology strategies to study novel cellular mechanisms underlying synthetic lethality with Pfizer’s preclinical and clinical assets. Primary responsibility of this role includes generating data packages to support advancement of late stage projects and publications in top-tiered research journals.
The qualified candidate for this position will be a highly motivated and collaborative scientist with strong interest in cancer biology, epigenetics, cell cycle progression and/or senescence response.
S/he will demonstrate clear and professional verbal and written communication skills, maintain an electronic notebook, and can present scientific results to collaborators and at team meetings.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Perform experiments to study genetic and epigenetic factors that promote tumor growth and maintenance
- Develop cellular and molecular assays to define mechanism of action relevant to target inhibition either by genetic approaches or compound treatment
- Perform cell-based assays for drug response alone or in combination to identify drug synergy
- Perform RNAi/CRISPR-based functional genomics screens for target discovery and validate novel drug targets both in vitro and in vivo
- Present experiment results in group meetings
- Maintain experimental records in electronic lab notebook
- Share common lab responsibilities such as lab supply order and inventory management
- Contribute to a dynamic, exciting culture that embraces teamwork and innovation.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- B.S. degree with 6+ years of experience or M.S. degree with 5+ years of experience in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics or related discipline
- Minimum 5 years of hands-on laboratory research
- Ability to plan and execute in vitro and/or ex vivo experiments with minimal supervision
- Experience in cell culture, cell-based assays and standard molecular biology techniques such as SDS-PAGE, ELISA, Western Blot, DNA/RNA purification, PCR/RT-PCR, and lentiviral packaging &transduction
- Experience with data processing software including Excel and Prism
- Excellent organization and planning skills, the ability to work independently or as part of a team, good verbal & written communication and interpersonal skills, and strong motivation with a pro-active attitude and dedicated work ethic
- Ability and desire to learn new techniques
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in cancer biology especially in cell cycle regulation and cancer epigenetics
- Knowledge of RNAi technology and experience in pooled RNAi-based screens
- Experience in use of CRISPR-based techniques for gene knockout, gene editing as well as working knowledge of pooled CRISPR-based screening approaches
- Experience with flow cytometry and NextGen sequencing
- Experience with tumor cell dissociation and processing