Senior Computational Biologist

Role Summary

Pfizer’s Machine Learning and Computational Sciences group is seeking a highly skilled computational biologist with experience in bioinformatics workflow and data management method development. The role involves analyzing high-throughput sequencing and multi-omics data to support the development of analytical assays and the characterization of oligonucleotide-based therapeutics. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing statistically rigorous analytical methods and building and managing both internal and publicly available databases. This will be achieved through close collaboration with a diverse community of experimental scientists across various research sites. This position requires a strong educational and research background in both computational biology and biostatistics in addition to a thorough understanding of molecular biology. The ideal candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm for working collaboratively, communicating effectively, and engaging with both computational and experimental scientists to drive innovation and analytical excellence.

Responsibilities

• Develop computational methods and workflows to support Pfizer’s portfolio projects focused on nucleic acid products and medicines.
• Streamline and automate complex analytical tasks for short-read and long-read sequencing data to improve efficiency and maintain reproducibility.
• Provide support for data analysis, visualization, interpretation of results, and experimental design feedback across multiple projects.
• Conduct detailed bioinformatics and statistical analyses and maintain documentations within a regulated system.
• Work closely with Research & Development scientists to generate new scientific insights.
• Manage and maintain computational infrastructure and database systems.

Qualifications

• Required: Ph.D. degree in computational biology, biostatistics, computer science, or a related technical field with 0-5 years of industrial experience in the analysis of high-throughput sequencing and other omics datasets.
• Required: Demonstrated high proficiency in programming, with strong skills in Python and workflow languages to efficiently execute and automate workflows and data management tasks.
• Required: Experience in computational tool and package development including version control, unit testing, deployment, and documentation.
• Required: A strong interest in continuously learning and engaging with emerging biological initiatives.
• Required: Attention to detail, documentation skills, ability to multitask, and effective interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Preferred: Extensive experience in developing high-throughput sequencing pipelines using the Nextflow workflow development language on a cloud-based platform.
• Preferred: An in-depth understanding of the statistical methods commonly used in omics analyses.
• Preferred: Familiarity with cGMP regulatory requirements for data and infrastructure security controls.
• Preferred: Experience analyzing nucleic acid molecules, large molecules, and vaccines.
• Preferred: A strong record of well-cited journal publications and presentations.

Education

• Ph.D. degree in computational biology, biostatistics, computer science, or a related technical field.

Additional Requirements

• Work Location: Hybrid (live within a commutable distance to a Pfizer site and requirement to work on-site on average 2.5 days/week).
• Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.