Lead Translational Biomarkers Scientist, Oncology/Hematology

MSD Malaysia; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 191,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck & Co., Inc. seeks a Principal Scientist in Translational Clinical Biomarkers (Hematology/Oncology) to provide strategic biomarker leadership across oncology and hematology programs.

This hybrid role involves designing translational biomarker strategies, integrating mechanistic biology, pharmacodynamics, and clinical endpoints to drive decision-making from early through late development. The candidate will translate disease biology into testable hypotheses, guide assay selection (NGS,

Qualifications

• Significant experience leading translational or clinical biomarker strategies in oncology/hematology drug development.
• Strong cancer biology and translational science background applicable to solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.
• Ability to translate hypotheses into actionable biomarker programs informing clinical development decisions.
• Expertise with biomarker modalities (NGS, ctDNA, MRD, IHC, flow cytometry, expression profiling).

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead integrated biomarker strategies across oncology and hematology programs.
• Translate disease biology and mechanism into translational hypotheses and fit-for-purpose biomarker approaches.
• Define how biomarkers inform proof of biology, dose/exposure, patient selection, and response assessments.
• Lead cross-functional biomarker input on program teams and communicate results clearly.
• Mentor biomarker scientists and contribute to a collaborative translational biomarker organization.

Skills

Biomarkers

Clinical Development

Oncology

Translational Medicine

Pharmacodynamics

Biostatistics

Data Analysis

Regulatory Knowledge

Education

PhD, MD, or equivalent

Tools

NGS

ctDNA

MRD

Immunohistochemistry

Flow cytometry

Gene-expression profiling

Job description

Merck & Co., Inc. seeks a Principal Scientist in Translational Clinical Biomarkers (Hematology/Oncology) to provide strategic biomarker leadership across oncology and hematology programs.

This hybrid role involves designing translational biomarker strategies, integrating mechanistic biology, pharmacodynamics, and clinical endpoints to drive decision-making from early through late development. The candidate will translate disease biology into testable hypotheses, guide assay selection (NGS,