Connor Cattafe
New York,NY
Summary
Versatile and action-oriented professional with 10 years of experience in both academic and industry driven clinical research. Strong ability to conduct experiments using advanced research techniques specific to research projects. Consistently deliver on-time and accurate results in GCP/GLP environments.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Scientist – Manager
Pfizer
Pearl River, NY
12.2022 - Current
- I lead and oversee a biofunctional assay team, supporting early—to late-stage clinical testing and ensuring quality and timely execution.
- Collaborate with clinical program teams and discovery science groups to align assay strategies with program goals.
- Drive new assay development and optimization, improving efficiency and accuracy in clinical evaluations.
- Present clinical updates and assay performance reviews to senior leadership, facilitating informed decision-making
- Author critical reports and SOPs for Phase 1-3 clinical trials for Flu, C difficile, and RSV vaccine programs; provide operational input for protocol development and oversee study-specific documentation
- Implemented process improvements, increasing operational efficiency.
Senior Associate Scientist – Manager
Pfizer
Pearl River, NY
05.2022 - 12.2022
- Managed a team of three associate scientists, ensuring the timely and high-quality delivery of data across multiple studies
- Led the reoptimization and validation of clinical assays, improving sensitivity and specificity by 30%
- Developed and implemented comprehensive training programs, including onboarding, SOP reviews, and hands-on learning experiences
Senior Associate Scientist
Pfizer
Pearl River, NY
10.2020 - 05.2022
- Conducted biofunctional assays in compliance with SOPs to support phase 2 and 3 clinical studies, leveraging robotic liquid handling systems for efficiency
- Executed preclinical and clinical sample testing, consistently meeting program timelines and quality standards
- Directed data review and archiving initiatives for nonclinical assays, ensuring seamless data retrieval and compliance
- Led investigations for nonclinical laboratory experiments, identifying and resolving critical challenges
- Analyzed data from nonclinical assays to support reagent qualifications, ensuring assay readiness
- Updated and maintained LIMS and SAS programs to align with TNA program requirements
- Trained and qualified new analysts on assay techniques, fostering team growth and expertise
- Authored key documentation, including reagent reports, SOPs, and project summaries, contributing to operational excellence
Research Associate/ Lab Manager
Advanced Science Research Center at The Graduate Center, CUNY – Neuroscience Initiative
New York, NY
10.2019 - 07.2020
- Led the design and execution of experiments investigating genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in mouse models, ensuring alignment with study objectives and compliance with regulatory standards
- Managed and maintained transgenic mouse colonies, including genotyping and expansion, to support experimental requirements and uphold quality assurance protocols
- Conducted molecular biology procedures (e.g., qPCR, DNA/RNA preparation, Western Blots) with a focus on data integrity and reproducibility, contributing to high-quality study outcomes
- Performed advanced imaging analyses using confocal microscopy to assess experimental results, providing critical insights for study development and reporting
- Supported the daily operations of the epigenetics core facility, ensuring all equipment was functioning optimally, and implemented preventative maintenance protocols to enhance operational efficiency
Research Associate
Rutgers University, Kirby Lab, Federated Department of Biology
Newark, NJ
10.2017 - 07.2019
- Designed and published original research on phytoremediation, demonstrating strong analytical skills and an ability to communicate complex concepts effectively to diverse audiences
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop experimental protocols, ensuring alignment with study objectives and adherence to best practices in clinical research
- Secured funding through an independent fellowship, showcasing strong grant writing skills and a proactive approach to resource acquisition for research projects
- Developed genetic constructs using advanced molecular techniques, highlighting expertise in experimental design and data interpretation applicable to clinical trial methodologies
- Engineered model species for enhanced gene expression, illustrating a strong background in innovative approaches to scientific challenges and contributing to process improvement initiatives
R&D Analytical Laboratory Technician III
PepsiCo Global Research & Development Center
Valhalla, NY
06.2015 - 09.2016
- Conducted analytical and routine testing on concentrate, ingredient, and beverage samples, adhering to Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and quality control standards using techniques such as GC/MS and HPLC
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams in a cGMP environment to support forensic investigations and global product development initiatives, ensuring alignment with project goals
- Utilized laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN) for effective sample tracking, validation, and control charting, enhancing data integrity and compliance
- Assisted senior scientists in method development and validation, contributing to the establishment of robust protocols essential for clinical trial readiness
- Achieved a 100% on-time turnaround rate for high-volume sample loads, demonstrating strong project management and organizational skills, especially for rush and priority samples
- Presented quarterly research updates to senior management and the analytical director, showcasing effective communication skills and the ability to convey complex information to stakeholders
Associate Laboratory Scientist
Advance Testing Company, Inc.
Campbell Hall, NY
08.2014 - 06.2015
- Took ownership of time-sensitive testing for high-profile projects, utilizing fluorescence microscopy, chloride ion penetration, and various wet chemistry techniques to ensure timely and accurate results critical for studies
- Reviewed and analyzed all results, compiling comprehensive final reports for external clients, demonstrating strong attention to detail and effective communication of complex data
- Redesigned and managed a digital inventory management system, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with study protocols and inventory control standards
- Trained and supervised interns in routine testing methodologies, fostering a collaborative learning environment and ensuring adherence to quality and regulatory standards
Research Assistant
Marist College
Poughkeepsie, NY
01.2014 - 09.2014
- Conducted phylogenetic analysis and reclassification of the Cottus bairdi-cognattus species complex, demonstrating strong analytical skills and a systematic approach to data interpretation relevant to clinical research
- Sequenced and analyzed mitochondrial 16S rRNA data to identify genetic variations between subspecies, showcasing expertise in molecular techniques and data analysis critical for study design and implementation
- Published gene haplotypes to GenBank, highlighting attention to detail and compliance with data submission standards, reinforcing the importance of data integrity in clinical trials
Research Assistant
Marist College
Poughkeepsie, NY
09.2013 - 09.2014
- Investigated the effects of sphagnum moss and crayfish species exposed to platinum group metals, applying a structured approach to study design that emphasizes environmental impacts relevant to clinical outcomes
- Conducted histopathological evaluations, including tissue fixation and processing for microscopy, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in data collection and analysis
- Performed chemical analyses using ICP-AES/OES to assess the uptake, distribution, and concentration of platinum group metals, demonstrating strong technical proficiency in quantitative analysis critical for clinical research
- Compiled and presented research findings in the form of manuscripts and posters at national and international conferences, highlighting effective communication skills and the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences
Education
B.A. - Biology
New Jersey Institute of Technology/ Rutgers University, Federated Department of Biology
B.S. - Biological and Environmental Sciences
Marist College
Skills
- Regulatory Compliance (GCP, ICH Guidelines)
- Leadership & Team Development
- Resource Allocation & Workload Management
- Risk Assessment and Corrective Action Planning
- Process Improvement Initiatives
- Clinical Management
- Assay Development
- Immunoassay Optimization
- Tissue Culture
- Scientific Writing
- Plasmid design
- Protein Purification
Publications
- Bioengineering Populus Spp.: An experiment to Improve Hyperaccumulation of Heavy Metals for Phytoremediation [abstract], Tenth NJIT International Undergraduate Summer Research Symposium, 07/27/17, Newark, NJ, NJIT Office of Research, 13
- Espinasa L, Brech D, Castellane N, Cattafe C, Costanzo TA, Cottus cognatus haplotype 1 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence; mitochondrial, KJ778622.1, 2014
- Espinasa L, Brech D, Castellane N, Cattafe C, Costanzo TA, Cottus cognatus haplotype 2 16S ribosomal RNA gene, partial sequence; mitochondrial, KJ778623.1, 2014
Volunteer Experience
- STEMSearch, Dallas, TX, Research Mentor, 09/2023, Present, Mentor high school research teams through virtual platforms, fostering student engagement and promoting scientific inquiry during fall and spring semesters., Collaborate with educators to assess available resources and determine the feasibility of experimental designs, ensuring that projects align with educational objectives., Guide students in formulating hypotheses, designing experiments, and drawing valid conclusions, emphasizing critical thinking and data analysis skills essential for successful clinical trial execution.
- Planting Science, Saint Louis, MO, Scientist Mentor, 09/2018, Present, Mentor high school student research teams via web interfacing during fall and spring semesters., Consult with teachers on available resources to help gauge feasibility of experiments., Guide students on developing a hypothesis, experimental design, & drawing appropriate conclusions.
Awards
- Golden Opportunity Scholar, ASA, CSSA, & SSSA
- Provost Fellowship, New Jersey Institute of Technology
Timeline
Scientist – Manager
Pfizer
12.2022 - Current
Senior Associate Scientist – Manager
Pfizer
05.2022 - 12.2022
Senior Associate Scientist
Pfizer
10.2020 - 05.2022
Research Associate/ Lab Manager
Advanced Science Research Center at The Graduate Center, CUNY – Neuroscience Initiative
10.2019 - 07.2020
Research Associate
Rutgers University, Kirby Lab, Federated Department of Biology
10.2017 - 07.2019
R&D Analytical Laboratory Technician III
PepsiCo Global Research & Development Center
06.2015 - 09.2016
Associate Laboratory Scientist
Advance Testing Company, Inc.
08.2014 - 06.2015
Research Assistant
Marist College
01.2014 - 09.2014
Research Assistant
Marist College
09.2013 - 09.2014
B.A. - Biology
New Jersey Institute of Technology/ Rutgers University, Federated Department of Biology
B.S. - Biological and Environmental Sciences
Marist College
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