Scientist-Vaccine Immunology

ROLE SUMMARY

We are seeking a Scientist to lead preclinical evaluation and contribute to early clinical development of viral vaccine candidates through comprehensive immunogenicity assessment. This role will design, optimize, and execute cellular and humoral immune assays to characterize vaccine-induced responses, generate high quality data to support program decisions. The Scientist will work with high degree of independence and scientific judgement, driving assay strategy, troubleshooting complex experimental challenges, and interpreting results in the context of broader program goals. This individual will partner closely with cross-functional colleagues (e.g., discovery, translational, clinical, bioanalytical, and operations) to align study objectives, ensure timely generation and reporting of high-quality data in accordance with applicable SOPs and quality standards (e.g., cGLP and/or cGMP where appropriate). The successful candidate is a collaborative, detail-oriented scientist who can manage multiple priorities, troubleshoot independently, and communicate results and insights effectively and contribute to advancing vaccine programs.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead execution, optimization and troubleshooting of ELISpot/FluoroSpot assays to quantify antigen-specific B- and T-cell responses in support of preclinical and clinical vaccine studies.
• Lead processing of mouse tissue samples, including spleens and lymph nodes, as well as human or non-human primate (NHP) samples, to prepare them for downstream flow-based functional assays such as surface and intracellular staining (ICS).
• Lead multiparameter flow cytometry experiments for cellular phenotype and functional characterization including design and optimization of complex flow panels, operation of advanced instruments such as the Spectral-based Cytek Aurora for sample acquisition, analysis of high-dimensional datasets using software including FlowJo, FACS Suite, Diva, or OMIQ, and clear presentation of results to the study teams or broader audience. .
• Manage sample and reagent lifecycle activities (receipt, accessioning, inventory, storage, chain-of-custody, and preparation for testing) to support multiple studies and timelines.
• Ensure high-quality documentation, data integrity and reporting in accordance with SOPs and applicable regulatory expectations (e.g., cGLP/cGMP where required); maintain laboratory notebooks and records per policy.
• Provide Immunology expertise and guidance to research teams on the design and evaluation of preclinical vaccine candidates
• Prepare written summaries and presentations; communicate results, trends, and assay issues at team meetings and contribute to data review discussions with stakeholders.
• Support continuous improvement by proposing and implementing assay optimizations, qualification activities, and workflow efficiencies; help train/mentor junior staff as needed.
• Complete all required safety and compliance training and perform responsibilities in alignment with EHS requirements and all applicable regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• B.S. in Immunology, Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related field with 6+ years of relevant laboratory or industry experience, or M.S. with 4+ years of relevant laboratory or industry experience.
• Deep hands-on experience with cellular immunology methods and/or vaccine immunogenicity readouts (e.g., ELISpot/FluoroSpot, flow cytometry, ELISA, neutralization assays) including assay design, optimization, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute experiments, solve complex technical challenges and generate high quality data to support study objectives and program decisions in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong proficiency with scientific data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Microsoft Office; GraphPad Prism, Flow Jo, OMIQ or equivalent) and with demonstrated ability to maintain rigorous experimental records and documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional teams, present scientific insights to diverse audiences.

Preferred

• Relevant industry experience in vaccines, immunology, bioanalytical, or translational sciences with demonstrated contribution to complex program objectives in a matrixed environment.
• Experience with advanced immunological assays such as multiplex cytokine platforms (e.g., Luminex), complex flow cytometry panel designs, and/or assay qualification/validation activities.
• Experience working in a regulated environment (e.g., cGLP and/or cGMP) and familiarity with relevant documentation practices.
• Experience handling mouse tissue samples such spleens and lymph nodes, human samples and/or non-human primate (NHP) samples, including biosafety best practices.

 

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Routine work in a laboratory environment; ability to perform aseptic technique and follow biosafety procedures.
• Ability to safely handle biological specimens (including human and/or non-human primate samples) and, where applicable, work with infectious agents in accordance with biosafety requirements and training.
• Ability to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive pipetting, and lift/move typical laboratory materials (e.g., boxes of consumables) consistent with site guidelines.
• Ability to work effectively on time-constrained milestones in a highly collaborative and visible research program.

 
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $79,400.00 to $132,400.00. 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.

Candidates must be authorized to be employed in the U.S. by any employer.

U.S. work visa sponsorship (such as TN, O-1, H-1B, etc.) is not available for this role now or in the future.

To learn more about acceptable and prohibited uses of AI during the recruitment process, please review our candidate AI-use guidelines available on Pfizer Careers.

Research and Development