Lead Scientist - Drug/Device Combination Products

Merck; Rahway (NJ); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck is seeking a hands-on device characterization and design focused technical leader in Rahway, NJ. The role will interrogate drug delivery device platforms, identify risks and improvements, and drive functional enhancements using FEA, in silico modeling, and data analysis across pre-filled syringes, auto-injectors, and inhalers.

The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams, collaborate with external vendors, and communicate complex engineering concepts clearly to support

Qualifications

• PhD with 8+ years of industry experience in Mechanical, Biomedical or equivalent.
• Proven record of scientific accomplishments in combination product development with publications/presentations.
• Fluency in structural finite element analysis (FEA).
• Solid testing and troubleshooting skills able to work independently in a lab.
• Expertise with mechanical testing, imaging, and measurement equipment incl. x-ray CT, rheometry, microscopy.
• Experience in 3D CAD (SolidWorks), geometric tolerancing and stack-up analysis.
• Fluency in Design Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA, DFMEA).
• Cross-functional communication to support project timelines.
• Development in risk-oriented, regulated environments.
• Leadership in development projects with external vendors/research partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical interrogation of device technology platforms to identify risks and improvement opportunities.
• Design and develop functional improvements for drug delivery platforms using analytical tools and data analysis.
• Collaborate across cross-functional teams and external partners to advance projects.
• Communicate complex engineering concepts clearly to stakeholders to support timelines and regulatory expectations.

Skills

FEA

Mechanical testing

Imaging

X-ray CT

Rheometry

Microscopy

SolidWorks

DFMEA

Cross-functional comms

Regulated development

Vendor management

Education

Ph.D. in Mechanical/Biomedical Eng

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Merck is seeking a hands-on device characterization and design focused technical leader in Rahway, NJ. The role will interrogate drug delivery device platforms, identify risks and improvements, and drive functional enhancements using FEA, in silico modeling, and data analysis across pre-filled syringes, auto-injectors, and inhalers.

The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams, collaborate with external vendors, and communicate complex engineering concepts clearly to support