Associate Principal Scientist, Infectious Disease - Molecular Microbiology

Merck; Lansdale (Montgomery County); Hybrid; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to drive innovation in infectious disease research. This pivotal role involves designing and executing research programs that explore microbial biology and host-pathogen interactions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular genetics and synthetic biology, alongside a passion for mentoring and collaboration. You will be at the forefront of developing novel antimicrobial therapies, contributing to both basic research and translational medicine. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the field while working in a hybrid environment that fosters creativity and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Starker Hintergrund in molekularer Genetik, synthetischer Biologie und Mikrobiologie.
• Erfahrung in der Durchführung von Forschungsprogrammen und Teamführung.

Responsibilities

• Entwicklung und Durchführung von Forschungsprogrammen zu mikrobiellen Interaktionen.
• Mentoring von Teammitgliedern und Zusammenarbeit mit externen Partnern.

Skills

Mikrobielle molekulare Genetik

Synthese-Biologie

Nukleinsäure-Konstruktdesign

Mikrobiologische Forschung

In-vitro- und In-vivo-Krankheitsmodelle

Führungsfähigkeiten

Kommunikationsfähigkeiten

Analytisches Problemlösen

Education

PhD in Infektionskrankheiten oder verwandtem Bereich

MS/BS mit 10+ Jahren Erfahrung

Tools

Flusszytometrie

Mikroskopie

Immuno-Profiling

Job description

Associate Principal Scientist, Infectious Disease - Molecular Microbiology

Join to apply for the Associate Principal Scientist, Infectious Disease - Molecular Microbiology role at Merck.

This position is based at our research site in West Point, PA, focusing on the discovery and development of novel antimicrobial therapies. The candidate will independently design, execute, and potentially lead research programs investigating microbial biology, host-pathogen interactions, and immunological responses using cell-based assays and in vivo models. A strong background in molecular genetics, synthetic biology, bacteriology, virology, or immunology is required.

The role involves conducting bench research, mentoring team members, participating in departmental activities, and engaging with external collaborators. The ideal candidate values creative thinking, teamwork, and independent problem solving, and is motivated to impact basic research and translational medicine.

Education Requirements

• PhD with 3+ years of experience in Infectious Disease or related discipline (or MS/BS with 10+ years of experience)

Required Skills

• Expertise in microbial molecular genetics and synthetic biology, especially related to bacteria, fungi, or viruses (notably HIV)
• Proficiency in nucleic acid construct design, cloning, and cell line development
• Microbiological research experience with host interactions and immunity
• Proficiency in in vitro and in vivo disease models
• Awareness of emerging biology and technologies
• Leadership experience and collaboration skills
• Knowledge of drug discovery and translational research
• Strong computer skills, experimental design, and analytical problem-solving
• Good communication skills and a publication record

Preferred Skills

• Experience managing and developing teams
• Flow cytometry, microscopy, immuno-profiling, and related techniques
• Biomarker discovery and assay development experience
• Designing and analyzing in vivo immunological experiments

Additional information includes application procedures, company policies on inclusion and equal opportunity, hybrid work model details, and legal notices.