Merck & Co, Inc

Assoc. Scientist, Biology-Discovery

Merck & Co, Inc$71K — $113K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Immunology, or related field
  • 2 years of laboratory experience (academic experience accepted)
  • Hands-on ELISA or other plate-based immunoassay experience
  • Basic understanding of pharmacokinetics (PK) principles
  • Strong attention to detail and protocol adherence
  • Good data analysis and organizational skills
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented, cross-functional lab environment

Responsibilities

  • Perform ELISA assays for quantifying proteins in biological samples
  • Support pharmacokinetic sample analysis with preparation and plate assays
  • Execute experiments following SOPs and study protocols
  • Analyze and interpret assay data using analysis software
  • Generate standard curves and summarize sample concentrations
  • Maintain accurate electronic laboratory notebook documentation
  • Assist in assay qualification, optimization, and troubleshooting

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance for employees and families
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company contributions
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
  • Opportunities for annual bonuses and long-term incentives
  • Access to additional perks and educational resources through the company
Full Job Description
Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated entry-level Associate Scientist to support bioanalytical activities, including ELISA-based assay execution and pharmacokinetic (PK) sample analysis. This position will contribute to early-stage and preclinical veterinary or biological product development by generating reliable quantitative data to support PK and immunogenicity studies.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform ELISA-based assays for quantification of proteins (e.g., antibodies, biomarkers, cytokines) in biological matrices such as serum and plasma
  • Support pharmacokinetic (PK) sample analysis, including sample preparation, dilution, and plate-based assays
  • Execute experiments following standard operating procedures (SOPs) and study protocols
  • Analyze and interpret assay data using software such as SoftMax Pro, Prism, or similar tools
  • Generate standard curves, sample concentration calculations and tabulated summaries
  • Maintain accurate and detailed electronic laboratory notebook (ELN) documentation
  • Assist in assay qualification, optimization, and troubleshooting
  • Ensure compliance with GLP/GCP and internal quality standards (as applicable)
  • Support method validation activities and data review
  • Serve as Study Investigator for laboratory procedures
  • Read scientific literature as assigned by supervisor
  • Make project-oriented presentations in team meetings
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including bioanalytical scientists and project team members

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Biology, Immunology, or related scientific field
  • 2 years of laboratory experience (academic lab experience acceptable)
  • Hands-on experience with ELISA or other plate-based immunoassays
  • Basic understanding of pharmacokinetics (PK) principles
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols precisely
  • Good data analysis and organizational skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, cross-functionallab environment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Internship or lab experience in a bioanalytical, CRO, or biotech/pharma setting
  • Exposure to PK/ADA (anti-drug antibody) assays
  • Experience with plate readers and bioanalytical software tools
  • Knowledge of GLP or regulated bioanalysis

Key Skills:
  • ELISA assay setup, execution, and troubleshooting
  • Pipetting accuracy and laboratory best practices
  • Data analysis and curve fitting
  • Time management and multitasking
  • Scientific documentation and communication

Work Environment:
  • Laboratory-based role involving routine bench work
  • Handling of biological samples using proper safety procedures


Required Skills:
Animal Science, Animal Science, Assay, Assay Development, Biochemical Assays, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Biostatistics, Cell-Based Assays, Cell Biology, Cell Culture Techniques, Cytokines, Data Analysis, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunoassays, Immunochemistry, Immunology, Immunotherapy, Laboratory Documentation, Laboratory Techniques, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pipetting, Sample Analysis, Scientific Writing {+ 1 more}

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:

The salary range for this role is
$71,900.00 - $113,200.00

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee's position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.

San Francisco Residents Only: We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Los Angeles Residents Only: We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status:
Regular

Relocation:
No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:
No

Travel Requirements:
No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:
Not Applicable

Shift:
1st - Day

Valid Driving License:
No

Hazardous Material(s):
NA

Job Posting End Date:
09/10/2026
*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

About Merck & Co, Inc

Schering-Plough Corporation is a major U.S.-based manufacturer of pharmaceuticals. It operates in three segments: Prescription Pharmaceuticals, Animal Health, and Consumer Health Care. Schering-Plough develops products targeting on allergy, cancer, hepatitis, cardiovascular, central nervous system, respiratory system, and more.  It was founded in 1851 by Ernst Christian Friedrich Schering as Schering AG in Germany. Schering-Plough manufactured several pharmaceutical drugs, the most well-known of which were the allergy drugs Claritin and Clarinex, an anti-cholesterol drug Vytorin, and a brain tumor drug Temodar. It also developed drugs targeting on central nervous system and the respiratory system. Schering Plough also owned and operated the major foot care brand name Dr. Scholl's and the skin care line Coppertone. These also became a part of the new company. Schering-Plough was a full member of the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA), a membership which is also maintained by the new Merck.

Merck & Co, Inc Careers

Join the visionary team at Merck & Co, Inc, a global leader in healthcare dedicated to advancing the world of medicine. As part of our professional community, you'll find dynamic job opportunities that foster innovation and leadership across various fields. Merck & Co, Inc is not just a company; it's a place where you can make a difference.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck & Co, Inc, we are committed to improving global health through groundbreaking research and innovative healthcare solutions. Our team is at the forefront of developing new therapies and vaccines that significantly impact public health worldwide. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using your skills to contribute to projects that save and improve lives around the globe.

Explore Career Paths

Whether you're seeking an internship, a graduate opportunity, or a professional position, Merck & Co, Inc offers a range of career paths in environments that promote rapid professional growth and development. Explore job opportunities in research, digital transformation, manufacturing, and more, all while benefiting from a culture that supports diversity and inclusion.

Innovate and Lead

Merck & Co, Inc is an ideal environment for those who lead with curiosity and the drive to innovate. Our leadership is committed to fostering a culture where inventive thinking and collaboration are encouraged, making it a perfect place for professionals who seek to make an impact through their work.

Develop Your Skills

With Merck & Co, Inc, you are not just getting a job; you're gaining access to unparalleled career development opportunities. Enhance your skills through diverse training programs, workshops, and continuous learning courses designed to help you grow at every stage of your career.

Benefits and Culture

We understand that our employees are our greatest asset, which is why we offer competitive benefits designed to support the health and well-being of you and your family. From comprehensive health care coverage and retirement plans to flexible working conditions and wellness programs, our benefits package is designed to meet the diverse needs of our team members.

Join Our Team

Ready to advance your career at Merck & Co, Inc? Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for passionate, creative, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and become part of a company that's dedicated to making a difference.

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Learn more about Merck & Co, Inc
Size
68,000 employees
Market Cap
$282.6 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ

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