About this Head of Immunodiagnostics and Next Generation Technology role at Pfizer
POSITION SUMMARY
As a Senior Leader within our Vaccines R&D Clinical Immunology and Diagnostics organization, you will envision and implement next-generation immunodiagnostics strategies. Reporting to the Head of Clinical Diagnostics, you will drive novel, high-throughput ligand binding assay (LBA) strategies outside of conventional plate-based assays—focusing heavily on automation, speed, and high precision.
You will lead a high-performing team developing and maintaining immunodiagnostic assays to support vaccine clinical trials and epidemiological studies. You will serve as the primary immunology and assay development Subject Matter Expert (SME) for vaccine program teams. You will leverage your deep end-to-end expertise in assay lifecycles, robotic sample handling, clinical batching, and analytical/clinical validations under GCLP/cGMP guidelines.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategy and Innovation
Envision and execute next-generation ligand binding assay (LBA) strategies, driving high-throughput, automated, and rapid-completion alternatives to traditional plate-based assays.
Keep abreast of scientific and technological breakthroughs; identify and in-license/in-house promising new diagnostic platforms.
Project and Clinical Leadership
Set objectives for and manage multiple assay development projects (serological, immunodiagnostic, and toxicological).
Drive the prioritization of clinical epidemiological studies by optimizing logistical testing resources.
Author and review high-level technical documents, validations, regulatory responses, and scientific publications.
Collaboration and Influence
Collaborate across internal Vaccines R&D teams and external partners to integrate cutting-edge testing technologies into clinical strategies.
Lead technology transfers and represent the department in key scientific and strategic discussions.
People Management and Compliance
Direct and mentor a diverse team of scientists, including direct management of multiple subordinate managers.
Ensure all laboratory work and clinical testing strictly adhere to Pfizer values, SOPs, and GCLP/cGMP standards.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Education and Experience
PhD in Immunology or a closely related biological field.
5+ years of industry experience leading the development of advanced tools and assays and the implementation of cutting edge technologies
Experience managing other managers and mentoring junior scientists.
Technical Expertise
Deep expertise in assay development and lifecycle management (from concept/design to long-term sustainability).
Strong background in robotic sample handling systems, clinical batching, Design of Experiments (DoE), and general biostatistical analysis.
Expert knowledge of analytical/clinical validations under GCLP and/or cGMP guidelines.
Tools and Technology
Proficiency with LIMS, DoE software, and standard enterprise suites.
Communication and Influence
Strong publication record (primary author) and
Experience presenting concise, high-level data to senior leadership.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience leveraging AI, machine learning, or advanced algorithmic scheduling software to optimize high-throughput laboratory automation and automated assay data analysis pipelines
Experience interacting with/responding to regulatory agencies
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.
Work Location Assignment: This is a hybrid role requiring you to live within commuting distance and work on-site an average of 2.5 days per week or more as needed.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Sitting of long periods of time and occasional walking from one building to another.
Relocation support available
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.
Sunshine Act
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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 Development