Pfizer's Oncology Research Unit (ORU) in La Jolla, California, is seeking a Scientist (non-PhD) focused on translating basic discoveries in the field of tumor biology into novel therapeutics.

The Scientist will lead translational development efforts supporting drug programs currently in clinical development and/or advanced pre-clinical drug discovery stages. Our ideal candidate will have strong translational research experience with hands-on expertise in conducting drug mechanism of action studies, elucidation of drug resistance mechanisms and development of rational drug combination strategies. The candidate will lead biological translational studies utilizing genetic and pharmacological approaches to understand MOA and generate patient stratification strategies for novel cancer therapeutics. As a member of the group, the candidate will work together with a team of motivated and scientifically rigorous scientists to perform laboratory-based research in a collaborative team environment, interpret and present findings at team/project meetings and function as an integral member of the team to advance drug programs.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform routine cell culture and molecular biology experiments to support discovering novel targets/therapeutics, target evaluation and mechanism of action studies for cancer.
• Independently able to develop and apply complex in vitro assays for conducting synthetic-lethal, drug combination screens to identify rational combinations and patient selection biomarkers.
• Collaborate with in vivo pharmacology group for efficacy testing, PK/PD and experimental design of preclinical PoC experiments and develop cell assays to measure pharmacodynamic changes, kinetics of drug response and evaluation of predictive biomarkers.
• Critically analyze/interpret complex data and able to present research results and methodologies at weekly meetings with immediate supervisor and/or project leader, and other research forums.
• Document experiments and data analysis in E-Workbook.
• Contribute to building a culture that embraces scientific excellence, urgency, partnerships with key stakeholders, continuous learning and improvement, increasing technical skill base and cancer biology expertise; take a proactive role in personal growth and scientific development.

QUALIFICATIONS

Must-Have

• BS in Molecular or Cellular Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology (or a comparable biological science) with 6+ years of relevant experience or MS in Molecular or Cellular Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology (or a comparable biological science) with 4+ years of relevant experience in an academic or pharmaceutical/biotech environment.
• Experience designing, conducting and analyzing cancer drug combination studies.
• Experience in use of CRISPR-based techniques for gene knockout, shRNA knockdown and as well as working knowledge of pooled CRISPR -based screening approaches.
• Experience in 2D and 3D (spheroid models, organoid, co-culture systems, etc.) assays to measure cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.
• Perform cell-based assays across one or various technology platforms to assess target modulation and measure downstream signaling pathways– qPCR, ChIP-seq, FACS, immunofluorescence, western blotting, ELISA, or high content screening, etc.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively interact and communicate in multidisciplinary project teams, including solid verbal and written communication and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in the use of software tools to support data capture, analysis, and presentation .

Nice-to-Have   

• Strong track record in cancer drug discovery/translational research and the development of small-molecule inhibitors.
• Experience with GraphPad or Spotfire.
• Industry experience

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

• Perform work in a laboratory setting
• Extended periods of sitting and standing
• Must be able to wear standard PPE (lab coat/safety shoes/glasses/etc.).

OTHER JOB DETAILS

• Eligible for Employee Referral Bonus