RNA Accelerator Postdoctoral Fellow Inflammation & Immunology
- Pfizer Inc.
- Location: Cambridge, MA
- Job Number: 7111341 (Ref #: 4860154)
- Posting Date: Sep 21, 2022
Job Description
ROLE SUMMARY
The Inflammation and Immunology Research Unit in Cambridge, Massachusetts is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to study the application of mRNA medicines to immune regulation and tolerance. The postdoctoral fellow will investigate novel ways to target mRNA-based expression of autoantigens in cells and tissues that promote immune tolerance. A primary goal is to characterize the nature of tolerance and enhance understanding of current concepts in tolerogenic vaccines, immune cell memory, suppression, exhaustion, anergy, and/or senescence.
The successful approval of mRNA vaccines has fueled explosive growth in the development of mRNA and other genetic medicines. It is an exciting time to study how these platform technologies can better serve patients and address unmet health needs. The postdoctoral fellow will join a vibrant, global research organization that is dedicated to advancing innovative mRNA science and making world-class discoveries. This unique opportunity will empower the postdoctoral fellow to work with cutting-edge technologies at a premier research company and deliver novel scientific impact.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
Design and execute an innovative and meaningful research project focused on mRNA therapeutics in immune tolerance and autoimmunity
Publish postdoctoral research in a peer-reviewed scientific journal
Regularly generate new experimental data to guide, refine, and accomplish research objectives
Document all laboratory work in a prompt, thorough, and compliant manner
Work with stakeholders and internal departments to get things done in a timely and effective manner
QUALIFICATIONS
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. or equivalent degree in immunology, cell biology, pharmacology, bioengineering, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or similar field
Proficiency in designing and performing cellular and molecular assays (flow cytometry, immunoassays, in vitro/ex vivo cell cultures, etc.), ideally of immune cell function
Interest and ability to learn new experimental methods relevant to research project goals
Self-motivated and open-minded to learn continuously; ability to think originally, creatively, proactively, and adaptively
Ability to work independently and with teams in a positive and respectful manner
Strong reasoning and problem-solving/analytical skills
Excellent communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Expertise in designing and performing in vitro and in vivo experiments to study autoimmunity and immune tolerance
Proficiency in working with primary cells and tissues from mouse or human relevant to immune tolerance, including but not limited to lymphatic system, bone marrow, liver, disease-relevant tissue
Experience working with RNA technologies such as: mRNA design and synthesis, formulation, materials science, drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles, analytical methods
Familiarity with bioconjugation techniques and analytical methods
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to work in a BSL-2 laboratory with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times
Animal (mouse) work
Work in a business office environment
OTHER JOB DETAILS
Relocation support available
Must Have Work Authorization in US
The Inflammation and Immunology Research Unit in Cambridge, Massachusetts is seeking a postdoctoral fellow to study the application of mRNA medicines to immune regulation and tolerance. The postdoctoral fellow will investigate novel ways to target mRNA-based expression of autoantigens in cells and tissues that promote immune tolerance. A primary goal is to characterize the nature of tolerance and enhance understanding of current concepts in tolerogenic vaccines, immune cell memory, suppression, exhaustion, anergy, and/or senescence.
The successful approval of mRNA vaccines has fueled explosive growth in the development of mRNA and other genetic medicines. It is an exciting time to study how these platform technologies can better serve patients and address unmet health needs. The postdoctoral fellow will join a vibrant, global research organization that is dedicated to advancing innovative mRNA science and making world-class discoveries. This unique opportunity will empower the postdoctoral fellow to work with cutting-edge technologies at a premier research company and deliver novel scientific impact.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
Design and execute an innovative and meaningful research project focused on mRNA therapeutics in immune tolerance and autoimmunity
Publish postdoctoral research in a peer-reviewed scientific journal
Regularly generate new experimental data to guide, refine, and accomplish research objectives
Document all laboratory work in a prompt, thorough, and compliant manner
Work with stakeholders and internal departments to get things done in a timely and effective manner
QUALIFICATIONS
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Ph.D. or equivalent degree in immunology, cell biology, pharmacology, bioengineering, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or similar field
Proficiency in designing and performing cellular and molecular assays (flow cytometry, immunoassays, in vitro/ex vivo cell cultures, etc.), ideally of immune cell function
Interest and ability to learn new experimental methods relevant to research project goals
Self-motivated and open-minded to learn continuously; ability to think originally, creatively, proactively, and adaptively
Ability to work independently and with teams in a positive and respectful manner
Strong reasoning and problem-solving/analytical skills
Excellent communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Expertise in designing and performing in vitro and in vivo experiments to study autoimmunity and immune tolerance
Proficiency in working with primary cells and tissues from mouse or human relevant to immune tolerance, including but not limited to lymphatic system, bone marrow, liver, disease-relevant tissue
Experience working with RNA technologies such as: mRNA design and synthesis, formulation, materials science, drug delivery systems, nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles, analytical methods
Familiarity with bioconjugation techniques and analytical methods
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to work in a BSL-2 laboratory with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times
Animal (mouse) work
Work in a business office environment
OTHER JOB DETAILS
Relocation support available
Must Have Work Authorization in US
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.
