Protein Biologics Formulation Scientist (Early-Phase)

Merck; Corsier-sur-Vevey; On-site; CHF 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck is seeking a Formulation Development Scientist to advance early- and late-phase development for protein biologics in Switzerland. You will design formulation strategies, execute stability studies, and collaborate with analytical, automation, and project teams to drive data-driven decisions.

You will contribute to DoE-based studies, utilize advanced analytical techniques, and help shape regulatory documentation while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and clean lab practices.

Qualifications

• PhD in pharmaceutical sciences or related field with industrial/postdoctoral experience preferred, or Master’s with 5+ years in biologics formulation.
• Strong understanding of protein structure, stability, and formulation strategies.
• Experience with monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, or antibody-drug conjugates.
• Experience designing studies using DoE and statistical analysis.
• Familiar with analytical techniques for biologic products (CD, FT-IR, Raman, DSF, DLS).
• Ability to translate data into scientifically sound recommendations and work independently.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute phase-appropriate drug product formulation and stability studies for protein biologics.
• Support early- and late-phase development with formulation decisions and risk reduction.
• Collaborate with analytical teams to define characterization strategies and perform hands-on experiments.
• Work with automation and robotics to improve high-throughput workflows.
• Contribute to development plans, project strategies, and regulatory documentation.
• Communicate study outcomes and risks clearly to stakeholders and teams.
• Author and review development reports and support regulatory submissions.
• Identify new technologies and digital tools to strengthen formulation capabilities.

Skills

Protein biologics

Formulation development

Analytical characterization

Quality by Design

DOE / statistics

Data interpretation

English communication

Independent work

Education

PhD in pharmaceutical sciences

Master's with 5+ years in biologics formulation

Tools

Circular dichroism

FT-IR

Raman spectroscopy

Differential scanning fluorimetry

Dynamic light scattering

Job description

Merck is seeking a Formulation Development Scientist to advance early- and late-phase development for protein biologics in Switzerland. You will design formulation strategies, execute stability studies, and collaborate with analytical, automation, and project teams to drive data-driven decisions.

You will contribute to DoE-based studies, utilize advanced analytical techniques, and help shape regulatory documentation while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and clean lab practices.