Synthetic Organic Chemist – Senior Associate Scientist

Breakthroughs that change patients’ lives… At Pfizer we are a patient centric company, guided by our four values: courage, joy, equity and excellence. Our breakthrough culture lends itself to our dedication to transforming millions of lives.  

Position Summary

As a Senior Associate Scientist within Chemical Research and Development (CRD) you will design and develop safe, robust, and efficient synthetic chemical processes for the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and transfer these processes to scale up facilities.

What the position involves;

• Practical synthetic organic chemistry: The role is laboratory based; you will have ample opportunity to indulge your passion for practical chemistry. You will design and execute experiments that identify and optimise reaction conditions and develop work-ups and isolations, all with a focus on safety and quality.
• Collaboration and presentation: You will have the opportunity to work with, and learn from, world class scientists in top class facilities. You will present your work clearly and concisely, both internally and externally, through written and verbal communications.

• Design, develop and scale-up new and existing synthetic routes to active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs): You will embrace the use of literature, computational tools and apply our own theoretical knowledge to the design of new routes to target molecules and turn these ideas into manufacturing processes.
• Transfer processes to scale up facilities: You will partner with engineers, technologists, analysts and scale-up facility staff to develop high quality “right first time” processes and experience the excitement of seeing your process run at multikilogram scale. You will write documentation and engage with research and commercial manufacturing sites to allow the smooth transition of processes to scale-up facilities.
• Process understanding: Ultimately, you will use your acquired process knowledge into documentation demonstrating the control and understanding of the final process which will facilitate the regulatory submission and approval of new, life changing medicines.

Organizational Relationships

You will liaise with other Chemists, Engineers, Technologists, Analytical , and Manufacturing colleagues. You may also work with other pharmaceutical companies, external consultants & contractors.

Education and Experience

Chemistry degree or equivalent. Knowledge of working in academic or industrial laboratories is desirable

Candidate Profile

• Excellent, broad knowledge of synthetic reagents, methodology, reaction mechanisms, reaction work-ups isolations and characterization techniques and the ability to apply that knowledge in the laboratory.
• A willingness to learn and work with new technologies.
• Rational, innovative and creative approach to problem solving, ability to apply learning to new situations and problems.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within high performing teams, demonstrating positive influencing and listening skills
• Methodical and tactical thinker, able to critically evaluate information from a broad range of sources and apply sound judgement when making decisions
• Self-motivated and able to set personal goals which are realistic and challenging

• High energy level; hard working; makes things happen

We aim to create a trusting, flexible workplace culture which encourages employees to achieve work life harmony, attracts talent and enables everyone to be their best working self. Let’s start the conversation! We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is crucial to building a successful business. As an employer, Pfizer is committed to celebrating this, in all its forms – allowing for us to be as diverse as the patients and communities we serve. Together, we continue to build a culture that encourages, supports and empowers our employees.