Molecular Pathology Lab Lead — Biomarker Assays

Merck & Co.; Rahway (NJ); Hybrid; USD 173,000 - 273,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck & Co. seeks a Molecular Pathology Laboratory Lead to drive the strategy and operations of the tissue-based biomarker laboratory.

You will lead scientists in developing, validating, transferring, and deploying biomarker assays supporting the clinical development pipeline. The role requires deep histology expertise, leadership of translational research, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver decision-enabling biomarker data for clinical programs.

Qualifications

• 12+ years in life sciences with a Master’s degree or 10+ years with a PhD/MD including 3+ years of direct people management or lab leadership
• Demonstrated ability to lead lab operations, balance priorities, allocate resources, manage timelines, and deliver high-quality results
• Strong working knowledge of fit-for-purpose bioanalytical development and clinical laboratory quality systems (GxP, CAP, CLIA) where applicable
• Proven ability to influence, collaborate, and communicate complex topics across functions

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for development, validation, and clinical deployment of tissue-based biomarker assays
• Establish scientifically rigorous, fit-for-purpose assay strategies aligned with the biomarker question and development stage
• Advise on tissue acquisition, handling strategies, and guidance on experiment design and validation for clinical programs
• Evaluate and implement new technologies that expand Molecular Pathology capabilities and demonstrate value in translational biomarker development
• Oversee external tissue assay vendors and partner laboratories, including vendor selection, qualification, quality review, performance monitoring, and delivery of fit-for-purpose results

Skills

Companion Diagnostics

Histopathology

Laboratory Management

Laboratory Operations

Molecular Pathology

People Management

Pharmaceutical Industry

Tissue Histology

Translational Research

Education

Masters/PhD/MD in life sciences

Job description

Merck & Co. seeks a Molecular Pathology Laboratory Lead to drive the strategy and operations of the tissue-based biomarker laboratory.

You will lead scientists in developing, validating, transferring, and deploying biomarker assays supporting the clinical development pipeline. The role requires deep histology expertise, leadership of translational research, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver decision-enabling biomarker data for clinical programs.