Senior Director, Oncology Early Development — Clinical Science

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

Job summary

Merck in Rahway, USA, seeks a Senior Director, Clinical Science, Oncology Early Development to lead scientific strategy from candidate transition through first-in-human and proof-of-concept evaluation. You will shape development plans, drive biomarker strategy, and enable data-driven decisions across the portfolio.

The role requires deep oncology expertise, translational medicine insight, and strong leadership across cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality scientific input and compliant

Qualifications

• Significant experience in Clinical Development and oncology.
• Leadership of first-in-human and early-phase studies.
• Deep understanding of oncology biology, translational medicine and biomarkers.
• Experience contributing to protocols, regulatory submissions and governance.
• Strong communication, influence, and executive presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic Clinical Science leadership across Oncology Early Development, including multiple studies, programs, and assets.
• Contribute to early clinical development strategy from candidate transition through FIH evaluation and proof-of-concept.
• Partner with section heads and cross-functional leaders to align Clinical Science activities with program objectives.
• Integrate disease biology, translational data, and external data to identify opportunities and risks.
• Translate portfolio priorities into Clinical Science strategies, capabilities, and resource plans.
• Establish standards for planning, data review, and decision-making; promote innovation and efficiency.
• Represent Clinical Science in governance discussions and cross-functional planning.

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 required (e.g., PhD, PharmD), or equivalent, with 8+ years of pharmaceutical, clinical drug development, and/or medical field experience preferred

Master’s degree, preferably in life sciences, with 12+ years of pharmaceutical, clinical drug development, and/or medical field experience

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in life sciences, with 15+ years of pharmaceutical, clinical drug development, and/or medical field experience

Job description

Merck in Rahway, USA, seeks a Senior Director, Clinical Science, Oncology Early Development to lead scientific strategy from candidate transition through first-in-human and proof-of-concept evaluation. You will shape development plans, drive biomarker strategy, and enable data-driven decisions across the portfolio.

The role requires deep oncology expertise, translational medicine insight, and strong leadership across cross-functional teams to ensure high-quality scientific input and compliant