Principal Scientist, Downstream Bioprocess Development

Merck; New Jersey; On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to lead downstream process development for biologics, driving high-yield, robust, scalable purification strategies for early and late-stage programs.

The role requires leadership in technology assessment, collaboration across R&D and manufacturing, and mentoring of junior scientists. Experience with continuous processing and data-driven optimization is preferred.

Qualifications

• PhD with 3+ years of industry experience or Master with 6+ years in industry in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering or related field.
• Proven record in downstream process and technology development with publications/presentations.
• Strong ability to lead planning, execution, analysis, and documentation of downstream process development.
• Ability to work in a matrixed team with internal and external partners, including vendors.

Responsibilities

• Lead biologic downstream process development for first-in-human and commercial processes, ensuring high yield and scalability.
• Provide technical supervision for process development and characterization.
• Collaborate with upstream process development, analytical R&D, and cross-functional teams to advance biologics pipeline.
• Advance downstream platform process strategy and drive process improvement initiatives.
• Stay current with external patents and literature, present externally, and pursue patenting strategies.
• Mentor junior scientists and foster cross-functional collaboration.

Skills

Downstream purification

Chromatography

Bioprocess engineering

DOE

Data science

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Chemical/Biochemical Engineering

Tools

DeltaV

PCS 7

TECAN

BioSMB system

Job description

Merck is seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to lead downstream process development for biologics, driving high-yield, robust, scalable purification strategies for early and late-stage programs.

The role requires leadership in technology assessment, collaboration across R&D and manufacturing, and mentoring of junior scientists. Experience with continuous processing and data-driven optimization is preferred.