Principal Scientist-Process Development

Role summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Peptide Chemist with deep expertise in enzymatic peptide synthesis and biocatalysis to contribute to the discovery and development of innovative processes for peptide and API manufacturing. The successful candidate will independently design and execute cutting‑edge enzymatic strategies, collaborate cross‑functionally across R&D and manufacturing organizations, and contribute to the advancement of scalable, sustainable synthetic technologies. A PhD in chemistry, chemical biology, biocatalysis, biochemical engineering, or related discipline is required; industry experience is strongly preferred. This role offers the opportunity to work at the interface of biocatalysis, peptide chemistry, and process innovation, with access to cutting‑edge enzymatic and analytical technologies. The successful candidate will contribute directly to the development of next‑generation peptide and API processes that support clinical and commercial manufacturing

Role responsibilities:

Enzymatic Platform and Process Development

• Independently design, develop, and optimize enzymatic platforms, protocols, and workflows for peptide bond formation and related transformations.

• Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies in peptide synthesis and biocatalysis to meet process chemistry and manufacturability targets.
• Conduct enzyme screening campaigns, reaction optimization, and scale‑up to support development through late‑stage research and process transfer.

Experimental Execution & Documentation

• Independently plan and execute experiments with well‑defined objectives, robust controls, and quantitative data analysis.
• Maintain high‑quality experimental records in electronic notebooks in full compliance with internal and regulatory expectations.

Scientific Innovation & Strategy

• Participate in multidisciplinary brainstorming to propose new enzyme‑enabled and organic synthetic routes for peptide and API production.
• Stay current with advances in biocatalysis, peptide chemistry, enzymology, and synthetic methodology through active review of primary literature.
• Apply structure–function understanding of enzymes to guide engineering or selection of improved biocatalysts when needed.

Collaboration & Cross‑Functional Integration

• Partner closely with chemists, analytical scientists, biochemical engineers, and manufacturing colleagues across the R&D and global supply network.
• Contribute to the design of robust, scalable enzymatic processes suitable for technology transfer and implementation in manufacturing environments.
• Communicate results and recommendations through regular team interactions and project updates.

Leadership & Talent Development

• When assigned, coach, mentor, train, and develop junior staff, including supervision of experimental planning and troubleshooting.
• Participate in hiring processes and onboarding of new team members.

Reporting & Scientific Communication

• Prepare high‑quality research reports, internal presentations, and external scientific publications or conference presentations.
• Clearly communicate scientific findings and strategic insights to technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Required Education/Experience (Minimum Requirements)

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Biocatalysis, Enzymology, Biochemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, with minimum of 4+ years of relevant experience
• Demonstrated expertise in enzymatic reactions, biocatalysis and enzyme enabled peptide synthesis.
• Strong experimental skills, including reaction optimization, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.
• Experience with enzyme screening, reaction scale up, and process-oriented thinking.

Desirable technical skills (Preferred Requirements)

• Industry experience in pharmaceuticals, biotech, or chemical process development.
• Hands on experience with peptide synthesis (solution phase, solid phase, chemoenzymatic methods).
• Familiarity with enzyme engineering tools or directed evolution approaches.
• Understanding of process chemistry constraints (e.g., green chemistry, robustness, scalability).
• Strong communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

  

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to work in a standard laboratory environment, including performing experiments at the bench and in laboratory fume hoods; ability to handle chemicals, enzymes, and analytical equipment following all safety protocols.
• High level of self‑awareness, demonstrating openness to feedback and proactively seeking input from others to improve ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and enhance scientific outcomes.
• Adaptability and change agility, with the ability to quickly reprioritize, adjust approaches, and respond to changes in project direction or scientific strategy.

NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS

• Occasional domestic and international travel (0–5%) may be required to support technology development, clinical manufacturing activities, and technology transfer to commercial manufacturing sites.
• Travel may involve short visits to partner R&D laboratories, pilot‑plant facilities, or manufacturing locations to facilitate collaboration, troubleshooting, or implementation of enzymatic processes.
• Flexibility to accommodate shifting project priorities and timelines as development needs evolve.

Relocation support available

Work Location Assignment: On Premise

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $106,000.00 to $171,500.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 15.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. 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