Associate Research Fellow, Early Formulation Science & Drug Delivery
ROLE SUMMARY
The Associate Research Fellow position will be a strong scientific and leadership role within the Early Formulation Science and Drug Delivery (EFS-DD) group. The selected candidate will interface with multi-disciplinary research project teams and cross functional management, advance both portfolio deliverables and scientific initiatives with deep science and strategic thought, and provide guidance and mentorship to other scientists. EFS-DD holds portfolio responsibilities in the areas of early-stage compound selection, pre-formulation development, solid form characterization, biopharmaceutics understanding, and early clinical drug delivery strategy of new small molecules. The role resides within the Drug Product Design and Supply department which functions as part of the larger Pharmaceutical Sciences division.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES/ABILITIES INCLUDE:
· Strong fundamental understanding of the concepts and connectivity of molecular structure, solid form, dissolution kinetics, thermodynamics, diffusion/permeation behavior, etc, and the ability to apply this knowledge to the design and development of formulations
· Efficient application of existing advanced modeling and simulation tools for predictive performance of oral absorption and systemic exposure (pharmacokinetics) in pre-clinical and clinical studies
· Leadership of matrix teams of scientists across multiple levels to deliver portfolio and initiative breakthroughs
· Leadership of scientific strategy and direction for advances in oral, small molecule drug delivery through interaction with organizational thought leaders and cross functional management
· Conduct novel scientific research and present significant findings via internal and external presentations or publications
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
· PhD in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with 15+ years relevant experience in industry after degree/post doc, or BS/MS in Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Physical Chemistry, Physical Organic Chemistry, Biophysical Chemistry or related discipline with a minimum of 20 years relevant pharmaceutics industry experience in small molecule drug product design.
· Small molecule Formulation, Materials Science, and/or early Biopharmaceutics background, and a strong record of scientific achievement
· Experience in using and interpreting biophysical modeling, physicochemical (solubility & dissolution) and biological (passive, transporter mediated, efflux) transport phenomena, design, interpretation, and use of in vitro experiments, and interpretation of pre-clinical exposure data for the design and selection of new small molecule drug candidates and drug delivery systems
· Motivation to learn and implement new technologies and concepts.
· A strong interest in leadership
· Extensive practical experience working within cross-disciplinary teams and achieving results in a matrix environment.
· Excellent organizational and communication (oral and written) skills.
· The ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively.
· Proven track record of supervising, mentoring and coaching scientists.
· Understanding of drug discovery and development concepts
· Experience in actively developing and advancing scientific initiatives and external collaborations.
· Collaborative and effective partnering skills applied in a complex, multi-disciplinary organization
Candidate demonstrates a breadth of diverse leadership experiences and capabilities including: the ability to influence and collaborate with peers, develop and coach others, oversee and guide the work of other colleagues to achieve meaningful outcomes and create business impact.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Physical requirements include sitting, standing, performing laboratory tasks. Mental requirements include performing data analysis, strategic thinking/planning.
NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Occasional travel or non-standard hours may be required.
Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
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.
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EEO & Employment Eligibility
Pfizer is committed to equal opportunity in the terms and conditions of employment for all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, gender identity or gender expression, national origin, disability or veteran status. Pfizer also complies with all applicable national, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act and IRCA. Pfizer is an E-Verify employer. This position requires permanent work authorization in the United States.
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Research and DevelopmentSource: the employer's careers page. Last checked 2026-11-02. Posted 2026-11-02.
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