Downstream Process Science Lab Technical Lead (Mgr.)

Merck; Ireland; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck in Dunboyne, Co. Meath, Ireland, is seeking a Downstream Process Science Lab Technical Lead to drive technical leadership across the Process Sciences Lab.

The role supports biological manufacturing from development to commercial readiness, with emphasis on downstream purification, viral clearance, and process optimisation. The successful candidate will lead a cross-functional team, ensure GMP and data integrity, and contribute to continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the MS&T

Qualifications

• Degree in a Science/Technical field; MSc/PhD desirable for advanced expertise.
• Minimum 6 years' experience in biopharmaceutical development, manufacturing support or MS&T.
• Strong understanding of GMP, data integrity and quality systems in lab and manufacturing settings.
• Proven ability to interpret complex data and translate findings into manufacturing actions.

Responsibilities

• Lead Downstream scientists in design and execution of scale-down studies and process improvements.
• Oversee small-scale studies to support technology transfer, facility fit and lifecycle changes.
• Provide technical leadership for downstream purification, filtration, viral clearance, UF/DF and formulation work.
• Support new product introductions across Drug Substance programs with cross-functional teams.
• Mentor and coach team members to drive continuous learning, problem solving and innovation.

Skills

Biologics

Biopharmaceuticals

Cell Cultures

Downstream Operations

GMP

Lab Processing

Manufacturing

Technology Transfer

Education

Science/Technical degree

MSc or PhD desirable

Job description

Job Description

An exciting new opportunity has arisen for a Downstream Process Science Lab Technical Lead in Dunboyne, Co. Meath.

This role is part of the Manufacturing Science and Technology (MS&T) group at our state-of-the-art, single-use, multi-product facility in Dunboyne. The Lab Technical Lead (Downstream) is responsible for contributing to the overall running of the Process Sciences Laboratory and working across site as part of a diverse and interdisciplinary team to build capability and knowledge in the manufacture of biologics at the site.

Key Responsibilities

• Management of a team of Downstream scientists involving the design, planning and execution of scale-down model establishment, satellite, and improvement studies in the Process Sciences Lab.
• Oversee the design and execution of small-scale studies which support Dunboyne site and CMO technology transfer, facility fit, process characterisation, and lifecycle change.
• Provide technical leadership for downstream studies supporting purification, filtration, viral clearance-related activities, UF/DF, formulation, and associated process optimisation work.
• Provision of technical expertise and leadership to support successful new product introduction across all Drug Substance programs at the site.
• Lead and coach others to solve problems and take new perspectives on existing solutions with a desire to continuously learn, improve and develop.
• Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills as well as influencing, collaboration skills and teamworking ability to represent MS&T on global and interdisciplinary teams.
• Champion a proactive safety, quality, and compliance culture within all laboratory activities within an open and inclusive team culture.

Qualification & Experience Requirements

• A degree qualification in a relevant field (Science/Technical). An Advanced Degree (MSc or PhD) qualification is desirable.
• A minimum of 6 years' experience working in biopharmaceutical development, manufacturing support, MS&T, process sciences, or technical operations, with experience in Downstream biologics operations.
• Strong understanding of GMP, regulatory expectations, data integrity, and quality systems relevant to laboratory and manufacturing support activities.
• Proven ability to interpret complex datasets, solve technical problems, and convert scientific findings into practical manufacturing actions.
• Effective communicator with the ability to think logically and be proactive under pressure and work as part of a cross-functional team.

Our facility in Dunboyne is a premier, state-of-the-art facility that enables and advances our best work. By integrating leading-edge technology with a dynamic, activity-based workspace, the facility supports seamless connection and collaboration within and across teams and functions. Our Dunboyne facility provides Biologics Drug Substance manufacturing for Clinical Supply, Registration, and Commercial Launch.

We keep the patient at the very heart of all that we do and strive to find solutions and treatments for some of the world's most challenging healthcare needs.

Required Skills:

• Biologics
• Biopharmaceuticals
• Cell Cultures
• Downstream Operations
• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
• Lab Processing
• Manufacturing
• Technology Transfer

Employee Status: Regular

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements: Not Applicable

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Job Posting End Date:11/13/2026 *A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.