Lead Principal Scientist—Upstream Bioprocess Development

MSD Malaysia; Rahway (NJ); On-site; USD 173,000 - 273,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Paid holidays

Vacation

Job summary

MSD Malaysia is seeking a Senior Principal Scientist to lead upstream bioprocess development for biologics, guiding internal teams and collaborating with external partners. You will drive strategy, process scale-up, and regulatory readiness across development stages.

Ideal candidates have a Ph.D. in chemical/biochemical engineering with extensive industry experience and a proven track record in leadership, publications, and innovative process technologies.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. with extensive industry experience in biologics or related field is required.
• Deep expertise in cell-culture process development for biologics and scale-up.
• Strong publication/presentation record and leadership experience in matrix teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of upstream bioprocesses for biologics across development stages.
• Guide cross-functional projects and mentor scientists in a matrix environment.
• Drive process characterization, regulatory filings, and tech strategies.
• Collaborate with academia, industry, and vendors to adopt novel technologies.
• Represent BPR&D as a bioprocess expert in internal teams and external projects.

Skills

Cell culture

Upstream bioprocessing

Process scaling

Leadership

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Regulatory awareness

Education

Ph.D. in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering

Tools

Process Analytical Technology (PAT)

Bioreactor scale-up

Job description

MSD Malaysia is seeking a Senior Principal Scientist to lead upstream bioprocess development for biologics, guiding internal teams and collaborating with external partners. You will drive strategy, process scale-up, and regulatory readiness across development stages.

Ideal candidates have a Ph.D. in chemical/biochemical engineering with extensive industry experience and a proven track record in leadership, publications, and innovative process technologies.