Pfizer UK Industrial Trainee Scheme 2015/2016

Pfizer Neusentis
Molecular/Cellular Biology Industrial Trainee (2 positions)


DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

Neusentis is a Pfizer Research Unit focussed on New Science Therapeuticsand was launched in 2011.
Current new medicine development at Neusentis consists of small molecule and biologics that modulate
ion channels, neurotrophins and solute carriers in a range of indications including pain and sensory
disorders. We also employ stem cell-based technologies to impact either therapeutically or to further our
understanding of the relevant area of biology (eg disease modelling via differentiation of induced
pluripotent stem cells derived from patients). The unit also maintains a watching brief on other emerging
new areas, such as epigenetics and optogenetics. The insight we gain from understanding how to
modulate both established and novel targets (ion channels, neurotrophins and solute carriers) is also
helping us to understand the biophysical basis of sensory disorders and explore new ways to develop
treatments.
Common to each approach is a process by which we research the mechanisms of the diseases. We then
decide upon the best approach based on this novel information. This could include defining a new drug
target, a novel screen to identify molecules that act upon those targets, or it may be to develop a cell
therapy to restore tissue function. We use state-of-the-art molecular, cell biological, biochemical,
pharmacological and drug development tools in our quest to discover the medicines of the future.

ROLE PURPOSE, MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

As a scientist, you can be sure of a challenging and stimulating year working in an exciting area of science.
You will work closely with a mentor (an experienced scientist) in addition to being exposed to a
multidisciplinary, matrixed environment. You will be given the opportunity to develop your own project
and to learn and use a variety of practical techniques. We have 3 vacancies for a number of disciplines,
with some project examples as follows: (1) how do specific genes control the differentiation of stem cells
down a given lineage; (2) establish and perform screens to tease out the role of individual targets as part
of complex mechanisms and understand their response to novel pharmaceutical agents (3) studying the
effects of altered trafficking of a solute carrier and how this is modulated by small molecules; (4) in-depth
molecular characterisation of specific nociceptor subpopulation.







Pfizer UK Industrial Trainee Scheme 2015/2016

PERSON SPECIFICATION

In addition to relevant lab-based skills which could span (but is not limited to) biochemistry, molecular
biology, pharmacology and cellular biology. In addition, the following attributes would be desirable:
Enthusiastic, inquisitive, creative, flexible and proactive. Scientifically ambitious, hard-working and takes
initiative to solve problems. Good team working and communication skills.

Interested candidates please apply through our website www.pfizercareers.com and select job
Molecular/Cellular Biology Industrial Trainee (2 positions)-1002420 until October 3
rd
2014.