Location
United Kingdom - London

Hours
Full Time - 12 months placement starting 1st September 2027

Salary
Negotiable

About the Role
Join Pfizer's UK Undergraduate Programme 2027/2028 within the Peptide Drug Development team at Pfizer Global R&D Pharmaceutical Sciences. The Internal Medicine Innovation Centre (IMIC) focuses on early-stage research to translate scientific discoveries into life-changing medicines. You will work alongside formulation scientists and analytical chemists to advance peptide drug candidates by supporting research activities and daily laboratory operations to generate high-quality data that supports Pfizer’s therapeutic pipeline.

During your placement, you will contribute to formulation development of synthetic peptide drug candidates, prepare and evaluate formulations, and assess the impact of pH, buffers, and excipients on solubility and stability. You will gain hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC/UPLC and biophysical methods to assess peptide aggregation and stability. You will set up and monitor solubility screening and stability studies, learning about peptide degradation pathways and control methods.

You will develop knowledge of peptide chemistry, pharmaceutics, and the drug development process, with opportunities to use automated and high-throughput equipment. Training will be provided to run in vitro potency assays for biologics. You will also become familiar with scientific literature and internal databases to design experiments and interpret data.

As a member of the research team, you will contribute to general operational tasks, participate in team meetings, scientific discussions, and technical training to build your knowledge, communication skills, and professional network.

Pfizer offers professional mentorship to build your network and learn from scientific experts across their Global Research & Development organisation. Additionally, you can use up to 5 days of paid volunteering leave per year to support causes important to you.

This placement starts on 1st September 2027 and runs for 12 months.

Experience
- Currently studying for an undergraduate degree (BSc or higher) in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related discipline as part of a Year in Industry, industrial placement, or gap year
- Prior hands-on laboratory experience
- Ability to meet physical requirements of laboratory work, including regular lifting and carrying

About you
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Flexible, collaborative, and team-focused approach
- AI literate

Qualifications
- Enrolled in a UK university degree course with a placement year or gap year as part of the curriculum
- Must complete and submit the Pfizer Placement Application Form to be considered (CVs or cover letters will not be accepted)