Senior Research Scientist, High Content Imaging
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 20, 2026. First seen by Alion on Aug 25, 2026.
ROLE SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our high content imaging lab within the Discovery Biology and Pharmacology (DBP) group at the vibrant Groton campus in Connecticut. DBP is responsible for hit-identification, lead optimization, and molecular characterization of our small molecules and has teams focused on high-throughput screening, DNA-encoded libraries, pharmacology, protein homeostasis platforms, cellular models, functional genomics, and high-content imaging. The group is highly integrated with other groups in Medicine Design including Chemists, Structural Biologists, and Computational Scientists, and supports the small molecule portfolio across multiple therapeutic areas. The individual in this role will bring in rich experience in high content imaging and high throughput flow cytometry, and apply them to support our diverse small molecule portfolio spanning various therapeutic areas.
ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES
High-content imaging assay design, development, and optimization: Apply a broad range of imaging and flow cytometry assay technologies to address project needs. Independently develop, optimize, and troubleshoot high-content imaging and flow cytometry assays.
Imaging data analysis and interpretation: Design and implement advanced image-analysis workflows, build complex analysis algorithms, and streamline data processing to support medium- to high-throughput screening. Translate imaging data into clear, actionable biological insights.
Imaging infrastructure management and continuous improvement: Partner with team experts to support high-content imaging and flow cytometry instrumentation, implement software solutions that enable advanced imaging applications and data analysis, and continuously improve imaging infrastructure and workflows.
Screening and mechanistic studies: Execute screening campaigns and mechanism-of-action studies using high-content imaging and/or flow cytometry assays to support target validation, small-molecule identification and optimization, and clinical candidate selection.
HTS and automation: Where applicable, partner with our high-throughput screening team to leverage automated systems to execute imaging and flow cytometry screens.
Technology innovation: Stay current with advances in imaging technologies and partner with the broader team to identify, evaluate, and implement novel imaging technologies and instruments that address unmet portfolio needs.
Leverage expertise in image algorithm development and imaging hardware and software to support the infrastructure, in close partnership with our Digital teams, and to support less experienced assay scientists in applying imaging and flow cytometry.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must have
Education: PhD in molecular biology, pharmacology, cell biology, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline (0 to 4 years of work relevant experience), with 2+ years of relevant experience applying fluorescence or confocal microscopy in biological research.
Imaging assay expertise: Hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and troubleshooting high-content imaging assays; familiarity with flow cytometry assay platforms is strongly valued.
Image analysis and data interpretation: Strong familiarity with plate-based imaging systems and flow cytometry instrumentation. Experience using image-analysis software and quantitative data-analysis approaches to extract meaningful biological insights from imaging assay data. Experience with advanced image-analysis platforms, computational workflows, scripting, programming, or computational biology approaches that support algorithm development and data analysis.
Scientific problem solving: Demonstrated ability to apply imaging-based approaches to address biological questions, troubleshoot technical challenges, and deliver fit-for-purpose assay solutions.
Learning agility: Ability to quickly learn new technologies, adapt them to emerging project needs, and contribute to continuous improvement of imaging capabilities in the group.
Communication and collaboration: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and clearly present experimental results and scientific rationale.
QUALIFICATIONS
Nice to have
Experience supporting small-molecule discovery programs or pharmacology studies across therapeutic areas such as Internal Medicine, Immunology & Inflammation, or Oncology.
Experience designing and executing cell-based assays to investigate target biology, mechanism of action, or compound activity.
Familiarity with implementing new technologies, instruments, or software tools to improve imaging workflows or expand laboratory capabilities.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to perform practical laboratory bench work and work on a computer). Ability to perform mathematical calculations and interpret data.
NON-STANDARD WORK SCHEDULE, TRAVEL OR ENVIRONMENT REQUIREMENTS
Candidate may periodically be asked to travel to the Pfizer Cambridge, MA site to meet project team members and to attend appropriate meetings and conferences.
Candidate must comply with all laboratory safety practices.
Other Job Details
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 Development