Associate Principal Scientist, External Capabilities

Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD); Bengaluru; On-site; INR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD) Bengaluru is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist within Small Molecule Process Research Development. The role provides scientific leadership and oversight for teams of scientists at external partners, guiding synthetic route design, route scouting, process optimization and development to support the company’s small-molecule API pipeline.

The incumbent collaborates across Process Chemistry, Discovery Process Chemistry, Enabling Technologies, Chemical Engineering

Job description

Job Summary

The Associate Principal Scientist reports into the External Capabilities group within Small Molecule Process Research Development.

The successful candidate will be responsible for providing scientific leadership and oversight for teams of scientists at our external partners. The role provides regular scientific direction and timely problem-solving in the areas of synthetic route design, route scouting, process optimization and development, and active pharmaceutical ingredient, API, delivery in support of the Company s small-molecule pipeline.

The incumbent collaborates effectively with Process Chemistry, Discovery Process Chemistry, Enabling Technologies, Chemical Engineering Research Development, Analytical Research Development, Quality, and other partner groups to develop innovative and practical solutions to synthetic chemistry and process-development challenges. The individual will work across internal and external teams to help ensure successful API deliveries under demanding project timelines.

The position requires strong subject-matter expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and broad knowledge of pharmaceutical development. The incumbent is expected to apply sound scientific judgment, identify and manage technical risks, and influence project teams through data-driven recommendations and effective problem-solving.

As a scientific contributor and project leader within Small Molecule Process Research Development, the incumbent is expected to build a broad internal network, contribute technically and strategically across a portfolio of programs, and support the scientific development of colleagues within the organization. The individual may mentor less-experienced scientists and contribute to functional or cross-functional scientific initiatives.

The Associate Principal Scientist builds and maintains strong working relationships with scientists and management at strategic external partners. The incumbent promotes a culture of scientific excellence, trust, collaboration, quality, safety, and compliance across Company and partner teams.

Strong communication, negotiation, influencing, and relationship-management skills are essential for establishing effective partnerships across diverse geographies and cultures. The successful candidate must be able to communicate technical expectations clearly, constructively challenge scientific proposals, align stakeholders, and drive external teams toward high-quality and timely outcomes.