ROLE SUMMARY

The drug-product process-modeling team in Drug Product Design (DPD) has a mandate to develop digital tools and computational models to support the development of high-quality drug-dosage forms (tablets, capsules, multiparticulate beads, ointments/creams, etc.) using batch and continuous processes. This team is seeking a (postgraduate level) expert process modeler to develop new computational tools and system level models to support continuous manufacturing. You will use modeling and simulation techniques to solve pharmaceutical industrial research problems related to continuous manufacturing with special emphasis on modeling and control of unit operations involving powder flows, mixing, processing and compaction.

Experience with computational techniques is required, such as: process models and flowsheets, statistical techniques, population-balance models (PBM), discrete element method (DEM), computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and engineering models. You must have a post-graduate qualification (MS or PhD) degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Control Engineering, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Physical Sciences, or related discipline with a focus on computational modeling. Close collaboration with Pfizer project scientists is essential – you must have excellent communication skills and be able to identify opportunities to apply modeling to develop drug products.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with Pfizer project scientist to understand the challenges and needs when developing drug-dosage forms (tablets, capsules, ointments/creams, multiparticulate beads, etc.).

• Identify opportunities to use engineering knowledge and computational tools to help solve project challenges. Be able to work independently, with minimal supervision, to define the problem statement, then develop and execute a modeling work plan to solve the issue.

• Using a variety of computational techniques, develop predictive tools and models to support drug development/manufacturing efforts for the Pfizer portfolio. Modeling techniques include (but not necessarily limited to): process models and flowsheets (e.g., gPROMS, ASPEN), statistical techniques, discrete element method (DEM), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), population-balance models (PBM), and first-principles engineering models.

• Plan and execute experimental studies in collaboration with experimental experts to support/validate modeling efforts.

• Work with Pfizer scientists to apply and implement modeling tools into project workflows.

• Communicate and present results internally at meetings and, on occasion, at external forums.

• Present scientific results to a diverse audience through data analysis and visualizations.

• Support Pfizer’s key technology platforms: continuous tablet manufacturing and multiparticulates, via computational modeling.

• Work with external partners (e.g., universities, research organizations) and vendors (e.g., software companies) to execute and deliver well-defined modeling projects.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience

• Post-graduate qualification (MS or PhD) with 0 - 2 years of experience in relevant field e.g. chemical, mechanical, pharmaceutical engineering with focus on process modelling.

• Strong background in numerical methods, programming and mathematics. Graduate research must be focused on computational modeling of chemical/physical processes with emphasis on system level modeling. Proficiency in flowsheet modeling using simulation software like gPROMS, ASPEN or related process simulators, and simulation software like Matlab & Simulink will be very desirable. Must demonstrate good problem-solving skills.

• Excellent organizational skills: ability to manage several projects simultaneously and deliver

• results in a timely manner. Excellent interpersonal skills: work effectively as part of cross functional teams and embrace teamwork. Excellent written and verbal communication skills: must be able to communicate ideas and results with colleagues with diverse backgrounds.

• Demonstrated track record of publications, presentations, and/or patents.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• You must be proficient in fundamental engineering/physical concepts such as mass,

• momentum, and energy transport phenomenon; and a mathematical ability to setup and solve

• linear, non-linear, and differential equations. Strong programming/coding skills and experience

• with numerical techniques is required. Proficient in programming using some standard

• language: C/C++, Python, R, Matlab, etc. Must be familiar working in a high-performance-computing environment (Linux based). Experience with any of the following software is preferred: PSE gPROMS Formulated Products, ASPEN, EDEM, LIGGGHTS, XPS, CFDEM,

• ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, STAR-CCM+, other closely related packages. Knowledge of data analysis and visualization packages (e.g., Spotfire or Tableau) is desirable. Strong statistical skills are also preferred.

Relocation support available
Work Location Assignment:On Premise

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $88,300.00 to $147,100.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 12.5% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. 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.

Relocation assistance may be available based on business needs and/or eligibility.

Research and Development

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