Oncology Early Development Senior Clinical Science Director

Merck & Co.; Upper Gwynedd Township (Montgomery County); Hybrid; USD 210,000 - 331,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) retirement benefits

Paid holidays and vacation

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Merck & Co. is seeking a Senior Director, Clinical Science, Oncology Early Development to lead strategic Clinical Science for novel assets from candidate transition through first-in-human development and proof-of-concept.

You will integrate translational biology, PK/PD, biomarkers, and safety data to shape development plans and enable data-driven decisions across the portfolio. This leadership role requires guiding study design, cross-functional collaboration, and building high-performing teams

Qualifications

• Experience leading first-in-human and early-phase oncology studies.
• Deep understanding of oncology biology, translational medicine, biomarkers, PK/PD, and safety.
• Experience contributing to protocols, regulatory submissions, safety reviews, and governance discussions.
• Ability to lead in a matrix organization and communicate with senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic Clinical Science leadership across Oncology Early Development.
• Guide study design, data interpretation, and program decisions in cross-functional teams.
• Establish standards for early development planning, data review, and dose-escalation meetings.
• Promote integration of emerging data to inform portfolio opportunities and risks.
• Lead and develop Clinical Scientists and foster a high-performance culture.

Skills

Clinical Development

Clinical Research

Clinical Sciences

Clinical Study Management

Clinical Trial Development

Clinical Trial Management

Clinical Trials Operations

Disease Research

Early Phase Clinical Trials

Oncology

Education

Advanced scientific or healthcare degree (PhD/PharmD) or equivalent, with 8+ years of experience

Master's degree in life sciences, with 12+ years of experience

Bachelor's degree in life sciences, with 15+ years of experience

Job description

Merck & Co. is seeking a Senior Director, Clinical Science, Oncology Early Development to lead strategic Clinical Science for novel assets from candidate transition through first-in-human development and proof-of-concept.

You will integrate translational biology, PK/PD, biomarkers, and safety data to shape development plans and enable data-driven decisions across the portfolio. This leadership role requires guiding study design, cross-functional collaboration, and building high-performing teams