Associate Research Scientist (WDA)

Merck; Singapore; On-site; SGD 33,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck Singapore is offering a structured career conversion program in our Animal Health Biochemistry section, focused on developing in vitro release assays to replace live-fish testing for batch release and quality control.

You will join a team that champions the 3Rs, receive hands-on training in ELISA and automated systems, and work under strict GLP guidelines within a highly regulated manufacturing environment. This role targets long-term development in biotech under Singaporean eligibility.

Qualifications

• Degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Aquaculture, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Life Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or related fields).
• At least 2 years of experience with experience in Programming
• Learning Agility & Growth Mindset: High adaptability and an eagerness to acquire new laboratory skills within a highly regulated manufacturing and scientific setting.
• Analytical Aptitude: Methodical approach to problem‑solving, attention to detail, and comfort with quantitative data and digital tools.
• Communication & Collaboration: Clear verbal and written English communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively within diverse, cross‑functional teams.
• Commitment to Long‑Term Development: Strong career orientation toward establishing a long‑term professional pathway in biotechnology, biomanufacturing, or quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Structured Training in Assay Transfer: Learn and execute in‑vitro biochemical and immunochemical assays (e.g., ELISA) designed to replace conventional live‑fish release testing for Quality Control.
• Diagnostic & Analytical Support: Receive training on sample collection protocols, diagnostic testing workflows, and the measurement of specific antibody responses following vaccination.
• Laboratory Automation & Digital Integration: Partner with scientists for programming and operating parameters for automated liquid‑hand‑handling systems and analytical instrumentation as assay methodologies mature.

Skills

Programming

Analytical thinking

Attention to detail

Communication

Growth mindset

Education

Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related fields

Job description

Job Description

Additional location(s) Compensation Information

• Analytical Assays
• Analytical Assays
• Analytical Assays
• Animal Handling
• Antibodies
• Assay Development
• Automated Liquid Handling Systems
• Biochemical Assays
• Biosafety
• Data Analysis
• Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
• Experimental Data Analysis
• Experimentation
• Good Laboratory Practices (GLPs)
• Good Lab Practices
• Immunizations
• Immunoassays
• Immunochemistry
• Immunological Techniques
• In Vitro Assays
• Laboratory Automation
• Laboratory Instrumentation
• Laboratory Operations
• Laboratory Techniques
• Microbiological Techniques
• {+ 9 more}

Our Animal Health Division is a trusted global leader in veterinary medicine, dedicated to preserving and improving the health, well-being, and performance of animals and the communities that care for them. Our state-of-the-art facility in Singapore serves as a R&D centre for developing fish vaccine.

Within the Biochemistry Section, our team leads the transition toward modern, humane, and highly reproducible testing platforms. A primary objective is championing the 3Rs principles (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) by developing, validating, and transferring advanced in‑vitro release assays to replace traditional in‑vivo (fish-release) testing for batch release and quality control.

Responsibilities

A. Technical Capability Building & Assay Development

• Structured Training in Assay Transfer: Learn and execute in‑vitro biochemical and immunochemical assays (e.g., ELISA) designed to replace conventional live‑fish release testing for Quality Control.
• Diagnostic & Analytical Support: Receive training on sample collection protocols, diagnostic testing workflows, and the measurement of specific antibody responses following vaccination.
• Laboratory Automation & Digital Integration: Partner with scientists for programming and operating parameters for automated liquid‑hand‑handling systems and analytical instrumentation as assay methodologies mature.

B. Quality, Compliance & Regulated Operations

• Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) & SOP Adherence: Gain thorough operational knowledge of working strictly according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), biosafety guidelines, and corporate data integrity standards within a regulated laboratory environment.
• Documentation & Data Analysis: Learn to rigorously document experimental raw data, compile trend reports, and conduct statistical evaluations for technical review and compliance audits.

Requirements

• Degree in a relevant technical field (e.g., Aquaculture, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Life Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Sciences, or related fields).
• At least 2 years of experience with experience in Programming
• Learning Agility & Growth Mindset: High adaptability and an eagerness to acquire new laboratory skills within a highly regulated manufacturing and scientific setting.
• Analytical Aptitude: Methodical approach to problem‑solving, attention to detail, and comfort with quantitative data and digital tools.
• Communication & Collaboration: Clear verbal and written English communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively within diverse, cross‑functional teams.
• Commitment to Long‑Term Development: Strong career orientation toward establishing a long‑term professional pathway in biotechnology, biomanufacturing, or quality assurance.

This is a career conversion program under Workforce Singapore (WSG) and candidates must meet the following criteria and are open to the following conditions:

Singaporeans/Singapore PRs only

PMETs/Mid‑Careerist with no prior work experience in Biopharma industry are welcomed to apply

Open to two years contract

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

• Limitless opportunities across various areas in Manufacturing; well‑structured career path
• A state‑of‑the‑art facility that delivers solution to its customers world‑wide
• Highly engaging team that aims to innovate the future

Our Manufacturing & Supply Division is committed to be the most trusted supplier of biopharmaceuticals worldwide. Our facilities, along with our external contractors, suppliers, and partners, create an interdependent global manufacturing network that’s committed to delivering a high quality, reliable supply to customers and patients on time, every time.

We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing diverse, talented, and committed people together. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when diverse ideas come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another's thinking and approach problems collectively. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rah