We are seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Oncology Therapeutic Discovery Group in Pfizer’s Oncology Research Unit. The successful applicant will assist in the identification and validation of novel small molecule drug targets in the areas of cancer epigenetics, signal transduction, metabolism, and immuno-oncology.

The successful candidate will work independently as part of a research team that is focused on identifying and validating novel drug targets and drug combinations in the fields of cancer biology and immuno-oncology. He/She will take a proactive role in their personal growth and scientific development.

The candidate is expected to

– utilize expertise in cancer biology and molecular/cellular immunology to design, execute, and analyze/interpret experiments and functional genomic screens to uncover novel areas of cancer biology and /or genes that can be exploited therapeutically.
– Present research results and methodologies at weekly/monthly group meetings and at meetings with members of the Oncology Research Unit.
– Contribute to building a culture that embraces scientific excellence, urgency, partnerships with key stakeholders, and continuous learning and improvement.

Specific technical duties include:

– Applying genetic and pharmacologic approaches to modulate targets in vitro and assessing the functional impact on cancer initiation and progression. These include RNAi, CRISPR, small molecules, antibodies and other pharmacologic approaches to modulate targets in vitro.
– Implementing genetic and pharmacological screens to identify new targets and potential drug combinations.
– Utilizing expertise in cancer biology to design, execute, and analyze/interpret experiments to advance mechanism-of-action target biology and develop innovative approaches for targeting in cancer.
– Utilizing 2D or 3D (spheroid models, co-culture systems, etc) assays to measure cell proliferation, cytokine, or phenotypic readouts
– Executing high content functional assays using Cellomics or Opera Confocal Fluorescent based assays.
– Executing molecular and cell-based assays across various technology platforms to assess target modulation and measure downstream signaling pathways- qPCR, ChIP-seq, FACS, immunofluorescence, western blotting, ELISA, high content screening, etc.
– Collaborating with in vivo pharmacologists to perform in vivo efficacy and biomarker studies.
– Utilizing electronic data capture/analysis tools such as Excel, GraphPad, Biobook, Spotfire and PowerPoint for experimental documentation and data analysis/presentations.

Qualifications

– Education and Experience: PhD or MD PhD in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Epigenetics or Immunology (or a comparable biological science) with a minimum of 2-5 years of post-doctoral experience.
– At least 5 years of experience working in the field of cancer biology or immunology
– At least 2-5 years of experience in the postdoctoral/industry setting focused on target identification and validation
– Extensive experience with genetic and/or pharmacological screens (in vitro or in vivo) – Hands on, extensive experience working with human or murine CAR T, CD8/CD4 or other immuno-specific cell lines
– Ability to work in a team environment Technical Skills: – Strong track record in target identification/ validation and screening approaches using small-molecule inhibitors and/or genetic manipulation (shRNA, CRISPR, etc) is required
– Strong biological and technical knowledge related to immune cell biology, mechanism of action target validation assays, T cell signaling and regulation is required
– Expertise in immune and mammalian cell culture techniques required
– Preference for candidates with also expertise in phenotypic analysis of immuno-oncology targets and pathways
– Strong experience working as part of a cross-functional team
– Excellent verbal/written communication and interpersonal skills Physical/Mental Requirements: Extended periods of sitting and standing