Neuroscience Discovery Co-op: CNS Drug Research Projects

MSD; Upper Gwynedd Township (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 111,000; Full time

Job summary

MSD is seeking a motivated co‑op in the Neuroscience group for a 6‑month program in our Research and Development division. The role focuses on planning and executing in vitro and in vivo experiments to support CNS drug discovery and target validation.

The position emphasizes independent work, collaboration with colleagues, and contributing to scientific discussions while developing hands-on skills in neuroscience research and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a BS/BA/MA/PhD degree program in biological sciences or related fields.
• Two years of progress toward degree by June 2026 required.
• Available to work full-time for 6 months starting early to mid-2027.
• Knowledge in at least two areas: molecular biology techniques, biochemistry, cell culture, neuroscience, pharmacology, toxicology, fluorescence microscopy.
• Hands-on biology lab experience such as PCR, cell culture, ELISA, or patch-clamp is valued.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, interpret and report in vitro and/or in vivo experiments.
• Develop and troubleshoot new assays and imaging methods.
• Communicate data clearly to teams and stakeholders.
• Review published work to guide research.
• Collaborate with medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and genetics teams.

Skills

Neuroscience

Molecular biology

Biochemistry

Cell culture

Data analysis

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

BS/BA/MA/PhD in biological sciences or related

Tools

Patch-clamp

Western blot

ELISA

PCR

Calcium imaging

In vivo rodent behavior

Job description

MSD is seeking a motivated co‑op in the Neuroscience group for a 6‑month program in our Research and Development division. The role focuses on planning and executing in vitro and in vivo experiments to support CNS drug discovery and target validation.

The position emphasizes independent work, collaboration with colleagues, and contributing to scientific discussions while developing hands-on skills in neuroscience research and data analysis.