Research Associate - I

Merck & Co.; Connecticut; On-site; USD 39,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

External Research Solutions (ERS) is seeking a contract-focused professional to support external screening data operations in Groton CT or La Jolla CA. You will manage data repositories, QC deliverables, and coordinate with CROs to ensure timely data delivery for scientific decision-making.

You will work closely with internal scientists and partners to organize screening workflows, maintain vendor records, and ensure documentation aligns with internal standards and audits.

Qualifications

• BS in Biology or related scientific discipline required.
• Experience with scientific data workflows, data management, and data QC in a research or screening environment.
• In vitro pharmacology experience preferred, including plate-based screening assay workflows, data analysis/QC, and upload.
• Experience working with external vendors, CROs, or outsourced research partners preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and update external screening data repositories and vendor-specific portals.
• Process screening requests, validate and QC data deliverables, and distribute accurate data to scientists.
• Coordinate with external vendors and CROs to track screening requests, clarify deliverables, and support timely resolution of data or workflow issues.
• Support plate-based screening assay transfer to external CRO partners by ensuring assay data, protocols, controls, and supporting documentation are organized, complete, and aligned with internal standards.
• Receive, format, and publish screening data using standardized data-loading tools and templates.
• Register and maintain vendor profiles and project records in designated systems.
• Maintain and update reference/control compound lists and screening protocols.
• Request registration of new control/reference compounds as needed.
• Adhere to established data handling standards and maintain clear documentation for audits and reporting.
• Support additional responsibilities as business needs, project priorities, or workflow requirements evolve.

Skills

Data management

Data QC

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

BS in Biology or related field

Tools

Data-loading tools

Vendor portals

Job description

External Screening & In Vitro Biology Operations

Location: Groton CT or La Jolla, CA

Employment Type: Full-Time contract position

Duration: 6-12 months

Company Overview (ERS)

External Research Solutions (ERS) supports scientific innovation by managing external screening partnerships and ensuring seamless data integration between internal teams and external vendors. Our mission is to enable high-quality, efficient research through robust data operations, strong vendor collaboration, and disciplined data governance.

Role Overview

Support external screening data operations, plate-based screening workflows, and vendor coordination to ensure accurate, timely data delivery for scientific decision-making. This role partners closely with internal scientists, cross-functional stakeholders, and external CRO partners to enable high-quality screening execution and data flow.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and update external screening data repositories and vendor-specific portals.
• Process screening requests, validate and QC data deliverables, and distribute accurate data to scientists.
• Coordinate with external vendors and CROs to track screening requests, clarify deliverables, and support timely resolution of data or workflow issues.
• Support plate-based screening assay transfer to external CRO partners by ensuring assay data, protocols, controls, and supporting documentation are organized, complete, and aligned with internal standards.
• Receive, format, and publish screening data using standardized data-loading tools and templates.
• Register and maintain vendor profiles and project records in designated systems.
• Maintain and update reference/control compound lists and screening protocols.
• Request registration of new control/reference compounds as needed.
• Adhere to established data handling standards and maintain clear documentation for audits and reporting.
• Support additional responsibilities as business needs, project priorities, or workflow requirements evolve.

Qualifications

• BS in Biology or related scientific discipline required.
• Experience with scientific data workflows, data management, and data QC in a research or screening environment.
• In vitro pharmacology experience preferred, including plate-based screening assay workflows, data analysis/QC, and upload.
• Experience working with external vendors, CROs, or outsourced research partners preferred.

Competencies & Behavioral Skills

• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Highly organized, with the ability to track details, follow established processes, and maintain clear documentation.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, matrixed, cross-functional environment.
• Team Player: Builds strong relationships across teams and with external partners, contributing positively to shared goals.
• Adaptability: Responds effectively to changing priorities, evolving processes, and shifting project needs.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of deliverables and follows through to completion.
• Customer Focus: Anticipates the needs of scientists and stakeholders to improve service quality.
• Continuous Learning: Demonstrates willingness to learn new systems, scientific workflows, and best practices.