Associate Scientist, Biology-Discovery

Merck; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck in the United States is seeking an Associate Scientist to join the Formulation Development team. You will contribute to the research and development of therapeutic veterinary monoclonal antibodies and other biologic products, focusing on protein formulation, analytical characterization, and robust formulation strategies.

In this hands-on lab role, you will screen formulations, perform stability studies, support analytical testing, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance

Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant science with hands-on lab experience.
• Familiarity with protein formulation and analytical characterization.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams and document results.

Responsibilities

• Prepare formulation buffers and samples with precise weighing and pH adjustments.
• Conduct formulation screening and optimization for monoclonal antibodies.
• Perform stress studies and analytical testing to assess stability and quality.
• Operate and maintain lab instruments, troubleshoot issues as needed.
• Interpret data, identify trends, and communicate conclusions to teams.

Skills

Formulation development

Analytical testing

Protein chemistry

Biologics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Pharmaceutical Sciences

Tools

UV-Vis spectroscopy

HPLC

pH meter

Job description

Job Description

For over 130 years, we have pioneered groundbreaking science. Today, we are driven by continuous innovation to develop breakthrough medicines, vaccines and technology. Rooted in direct experience on the farm and in the clinic, we work hand in hand with our customers every step of the way.

Our singular focus is to empower those who care for animals, helping them manage their vital responsibility with confidence. Because when it comes to animal health, no one sees it like we do.

Job Title: Associate Scientist - Formulation Development

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Scientist to join our Formulation Development team supporting the research and development of therapeutic veterinary monoclonal antibodies and other biologic products. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist with a strong chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or related background who is interested in protein formulation, analytical characterization, and biologics product development. In this hands-on laboratory role, you will contribute to formulation screening, stability studies, analytical testing, and the development of robust formulations for veterinary therapeutic antibodies. You will work closely with cross-functional teams including Early Discovery Research, Upstream Process Development, Downstream Process Development, Analytical and Bioassay Development, and Manufacturing Team to advance veterinary biologics from research through development. The ideal candidate is scientifically analytically minded, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with laboratory instruments and quantitative data. Training will be provided for selected instrumentation and platform technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare formulation buffers, excipient solutions, standards, and samples using accurate weighing, pH adjustment, dilution, filtration, and solution-handling techniques.
• Execute formulation screening and optimization studies for monoclonal antibodies, including evaluation of pH, buffer systems, salts, surfactants, stabilizers, protein concentration, and other formulation variables.
• Conduct forced-degradation, accelerated-stability, freeze-thaw, agitation, light-exposure, and other stress studies to assess product quality and formulation robustness.
• Perform routine analytical testing using techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, protein concentration measurement, pH, osmolality, appearance, turbidity, particle assessment, chromatography, electrophoresis, and thermal stability analysis, as available.
• Support evaluation of monoclonal antibody physicochemical stability, including aggregation, fragmentation, oxidation, deamidation, charge heterogeneity, precipitation, and particle formation.
• Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain formulation and analytical laboratory equipment in accordance with established procedures.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, identify trends, compare formulation conditions, and communicate scientifically supported conclusions and recommendations.