Biologics Process R&D Senior Scientist

Merck & Co.

Rahway (NJ)

On-site

USD 117,000 - 184,000

Full time

10 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k)

Job summary

Merck & Co. is seeking a Research Scientist for Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) to drive innovative manufacturing processes for next-generation biologics.

The role involves designing experiments, scaling processes, and collaborating across discovery, development, and production teams in a fast-paced environment. Qualified candidates will have strong lab design skills, expertise in upstream/downstream bioprocessing, and a track record of cross-functional teamwork, with a

Qualifications

Proven ability to design and execute hands-on lab experiments or simulations.
Proficiency with statistical design and analysis tools.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work in matrixed teams.

Responsibilities

Develop innovative technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing.
Design and conduct lab/pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and transfer.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance the biologics pipeline from early to late stage.
Mentor junior scientists in experimental design and data interpretation.
Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment.

Skills

Bioprocessing

Cross-Functional Teamwork

Data Analysis

Molecular Biology Techniques

Protein Biochemistry

Protein Purifications

Flow Cytometry

High-Throughput Screening

Adaptability

Process Optimization

Preformulation

Innovative Thinking

Interpersonal Relationships

Drug Delivery Technology

In Silico Design

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

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 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.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Innovation
- Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing processes
- Apply rigorous scientific principles and data analyses to solve challenging problems related to developing robust, cost-effective processes
Experimental Design and Problem-Solving
- Develop and characterize robust processes for delivering multi-kilogram quantities of life-changing medicines
- Design and conduct lab and/or pilot-scale studies to support mechanistic understanding, scale-up, and transfer of processes to manufacturing
Collaboration and effective communication:
- Work with a collaborative, cross-functional team of talented scientists and engineers to advance the biologics pipeline from early- to late-stage development
- Partner with groups in both research and manufacturing divisions
- Represent your functional area in cross-functional teams
Coaching and Mentoring
- Train and mentor junior scientists in experimental design, execution, and data interpretation
Safety and Compliance
- Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

B.S. with 4 years, or M.S. with 3 years or PhD with 0+ years of relevant experience (or expected PhD graduation -by June 2027) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or related fields

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

A proven ability to design and execute hands-on lab and/or in silico experiments
Proficiency with statistical design and analysis tools
Excellent communication skills, ability to work in matrixed teams and collaborate with diverse partners cross-functionally
A demonstrated ability to think critically with excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills

In addition to the required skillsets above, relevant experience is needed in either upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing as described below.

Upstream
- Knowledge of recombinant protein expression, metabolic pathways, biochemistry, and cell culture
- Understanding of basic bioreactor principles, mass transfer kinetics
- Understanding of cell & molecular biology
Downstream
- Sound scientific knowledge of protein properties and purification
- Understanding of unit operations such as chromatography, filtration, crystallization, precipitation, adsorption, mixing etc.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

History of external presentations and/or publications in peer-reviewed journals
Data science, modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; proficiency with programming languages
Evaluating and introducing novel technologies and analytical tools in process development and manufacturing
Knowledge of protein biochemistry, biophysics, conjugation techniques
Vector construction, Genetic Engineering, and Systems Biology
Knowledge of cell-line development for protein expression in mammalian systems and suspension cell culture
Hands-on experience with RNA and whole-genome (re)sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis
High throughput experimentation using automation platforms
Familiarity with feed and media development for large-scale recombinant protein expression in mammalian systems
Knowledge of Quality by Design, Process Characterization and Control Strategy development

#BPRD #PRD #eligibleforERP

Required Skills

Adaptability, Bioprocessing, Cross-Functional Teamwork, Data Analysis, Drug Delivery Technology, Flow Cytometry, High-Throughput Screening, Innovative Thinking, Interpersonal Relationships, Molecular Biology Techniques, Multi-Color Flow Cytometry, Preformulation, Process Optimization, Protein Biochemistry, Protein Purifications

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only

Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:

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

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The salary range for this role is

$117,000.00 - $184,200.00

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits

Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits .

San Francisco Residents Only

We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Los Angeles Residents Only

We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance

Employee Status

Regular

Relocation

Domestic

VISA Sponsorship

Yes

Travel Requirements

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements

Not Applicable

Shift

Not Indicated