Immunology Discovery Leader - Executive Director

Merck & Co.; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 256,000 - 403,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision care

401(k)

Paid holidays

Vacation

Sick days

Job summary

Merck & Co. is seeking an Executive Director of Immunology Discovery research to lead a high‑performing team at our San Diego R&D site. The role focuses on Gastroenterology, Dermatology and Rheumatology therapeutics, shaping the Immunology discovery pipeline and coordinating with clinical, translational, CMC and regulatory partners.

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. or equivalent, 15+ years in Immunology discovery, and proven leadership overseeing multiple teams, with a track record

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in Immunology discovery research including drug development.
• Knowledge of immune-mediated diseases in Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Dermatology.
• 5+ years of direct management overseeing multiple teams and leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Set vision and strategy for Immunology team to drive performance and invent drugs.
• Manage priorities, resources, and investments aligned with Immunology Discovery strategy.
• Collaborate with research, translational, and clinical teams on discovery programs and early/late-stage studies.
• Develop talent to strengthen the team.
• Identify external BD opportunities to complement internal programs.
• Foster a high-performance, inclusive culture across site leadership teams.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration for INDs and regulatory submissions.
• Drive integration and continuous improvement across drug development functions.

Skills

Collaborative Leadership

Immunology

Influencing Skills

Leadership

Results-Oriented

Strategic Thinking

Team Management

Education

Advanced Degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in immunology, pharmaceutical sciences or a relevant field

Job description

Merck & Co. is seeking an Executive Director of Immunology Discovery research to lead a high‑performing team at our San Diego R&D site. The role focuses on Gastroenterology, Dermatology and Rheumatology therapeutics, shaping the Immunology discovery pipeline and coordinating with clinical, translational, CMC and regulatory partners.

The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. or equivalent, 15+ years in Immunology discovery, and proven leadership overseeing multiple teams, with a track record