Biologics Process R&D Scientist

Merck; New Jersey; On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck seeks a Scientist in Biologics Process Research & Development to design and develop robust biologics manufacturing processes. You will work in a collaborative team, applying molecular biology, protein expression, and purification to advance our pipeline.

The role emphasizes independent experimentation, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to deliver scalable processes and maintain quality and compliance at scale.

Qualifications

• BS with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS degree in Chemical/Biochemical/Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
• Experience with molecular biology, protein expression, cell culture, purification, or analytical technologies.
• Scientific understanding of recombinant protein production and purification.
• Ability to design and execute experiments independently.
• Ability to communicate, analyze, and present data to drive conclusions.
• Knowledge of aseptic technique and protein biophysical properties.
• Experience preparing technical documents and presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologics manufacturing processes.
• Develop and characterize robust clinical processes capable of delivering multi-kilogram quantities of therapeutics.
• Design and conduct experiments related to cell-line development, upstream or downstream bioprocessing.
• Integrate unit operations with process control and monitoring platforms.
• Collaborate across BPR&D, process analytics, and other functions to advance the biologics pipeline.
• Conduct lab- or pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and technology transfer.
• Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory environment.

Skills

Molecular biology

Protein expression

Mammalian cell culture

Protein purification

Biochemical engineering

Analytical technologies

Data analysis

Education

BS with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS degree

Tools

Analytical technologies

Job description

Job Description

Our Research Scientists are our Inventors. Using innovative thinking, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust scientific methodology, we partner to deliver the next medical breakthrough.

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our Research & Development Division is on a mission to rapidly deliver diverse biotherapeutics to patients by efficiently developing innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies. To achieve this, we work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, and Commercial Manufacturing while providing a diverse and inclusive environment for all. Beyond process development for pipeline biologics, we innovate and build next generation biomanufacturing technologies. Examples include investments for development of continuous manufacturing, green and sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. We actively publish and engage with the scientific community to influence the field.

BPR&D includes three lab-facing technical functional areas: Process Cell Sciences (PCS), Upstream Process, and Downstream Process Development & Engineering. The latter two together form our Process Development (PD) group that works on both the early- and late-stage pipeline. This job posting covers opportunities for the PD group. We are actively looking for highly motivated people with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing.

As a Scientist in BPR&D, you will work with immensely creative and collaborative team members to design and develop robust processes in support of early- and late-stage biologics. You will innovate to support our company's biologics pipeline and production platforms through rigorous scientific principles. You will have the opportunity to apply and integrate innovation into biologic process sciences to establish our company as the industry leader in next-generation biologics manufacturing. You may also be expected to contribute to additional areas of interest such as biophysical, reactor, process, economic and/or multivariate modeling as we are committed to leveraging digital ways of working to enhance our ability to design robust processes.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologics manufacturing processes
• Develop and characterize robust clinical processes capable of delivering multi-kilogram quantities of therapeutics
• Design and conduct experiments related to cell-line development, upstream or downstream bioprocessing
• Integrate unit operations with relevant process control and monitoring platforms
• Collaborate across BPR&D, process analytics, and other functional areas in research and manufacturing to advance the biologics pipeline
• Conduct laboratory- and/or pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing sites
• Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

Education:

BS with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS degree (expected graduation by June 2027) in Chemical/Biochemical/Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fields with research background in molecular biology, cell culture or protein purification

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• Experience with one or more of molecular biology, protein expression, mammalian cell culture, protein purification, biochemical engineering, or analytical technologies
• Scientific understanding of the engineering principles behind recombinant protein production and purification
• Ability to comprehend and execute experiments independently
• Ability to organize, communicate, analyze, and present experimental data to drive conclusions and further study designs
• Knowledge of aseptic technique, protein biophysical properties, and general protein laboratory practices
• Demonstrated ability to independently prepare technical documents and scientific presentations to capture development progress, scientific investigations, and technology development output
• Basic understanding of statistical methods and data analysis tools
• Strong passion and commitment to integrate science and innovation into biologic process development
• Ability to excel in a collaborative and matrix environment

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• Demonstrated capabilities in understanding and operating bioanalytical techniques to characterize microbial or cell culture processes
• Ability to think critically with excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills
• High throughput screening, automated bioreactor systems, and liquid handlers
• Experience with process transfer to clinical or commercial manufacturing facilities
• Knowledge of process control and workflow automation tools
• Strong foundation in statistical analysis, design of experiments, data science, computational modeling, machine learning, and a