Scientist

Rangam is seeking candidates for a Direct Hire role as an Scientist, Hamilton and Automation Specialist with our client Pfizer, one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies.

Seeking candidates in Pearl River, NY or willing to relocate.

*This position is being offered as part of a disability/neurodiversity hiring program which is designed to provide a more inclusive and supportive hiring process and work environment for job seekers with physical and cognitive disabilities, which includes, but is not limited to autism, ADD/ADHD, PTSD, OCD, Anxiety Disorder, Dyslexia, Bipolar, and Tourette's Syndrome*

OVERVIEW:

The High-throughput Screening (HTS) team is looking for a highly experienced Hamilton automation expert to modernize laboratory workflows and support multiple vaccine programs. In this position, you will play a key role in advancing vaccine discovery by enabling robust, scalable automation and high-throughput screening capabilities across multiple programs. You will contribute end-to-end—from technology transfer and platform build-out to hands-on development, validation, and execution of automated screening methods—while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams. Your work will directly impact the speed, quality, and reproducibility of vaccine candidate in a fast-paced, collaborative research environment.

ROLE SUMMARY:

• Design, develop, and implement Hamilton STAR methods, translating manual assay workflows into robust, high-throughput, automation-ready solutions for vaccine screening applications.
• Validate, optimize, and troubleshoot Hamilton STAR methods to ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and scalability in a high-throughput environment.
• Independently collect, analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental data, applying sound scientific judgment to support platform and assay development decisions.
• Communicate progress, technical risks, mitigation strategies, and development plans to cross-functional colleagues and senior leadership in a clear and timely manner.
• Partner with Digital and IT teams to design and implement databases or portals for sample tracking, inventory management, and data organization.
• Maintain accurate reagent and sample inventories and ensure laboratory readiness to support ongoing and future automation workflows.
• Document experimental work using good laboratory notebook practices in full compliance with the Pfizer Laboratory Notebook Policy.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) with a minimum of 6 years, or Master’s degree with a minimum of 4 years, of relevant experience in Biology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline, within an academic or biopharmaceutical setting.
• 1–3 years of hands-on method development experience with Hamilton STAR liquid handling platforms, demonstrating intermediate to advanced technical proficiency.
• Experience integrating Hamilton STAR systems with peripheral devices such as shakers, coolers, centrifuges, cell incubators, and/or plate washers.
• Proficiency in sample preparation and assay execution using automated liquid handling systems, including validation and qualification of robotic methods.
• Working knowledge of programming or scripting languages (e.g., Python or R) applied to automation, data handling, or platform development.
• Strong ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team environment while maintaining scientific rigor and accountability.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including use of VBA for data handling or automation-adjacent applications.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with Hamilton STAR liquid class optimization, modification, and verification.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with mammalian cell culture, aseptic technique, or molecular biology techniques.
• Familiarity with SharePoint development or sample management tools.
• Experience operating or supporting additional automated laboratory instruments (e.g., QPix, 3730xl DNA Analyzer, Lunatic).
• Exposure to LIMS, GeneData, or similar data management platforms.

PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Work is primarily performed at the laboratory bench and at an office desk using a computer. The job involves lifting light loads, not more than 10 pounds. This position may require the ability to stand and reach inside the hardware environment of various laboratory robotic equipment.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $79,400.00 to $132,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 7.5% of the base salary. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life’s moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site – U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.