Merck & Co, Inc

Associate Scientist, Post Doc Fellow

Merck & Co, Inc • $82K — $92K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or related field (must be obtained by spring 2027)
  • Strong experimental skills in synthetic chemistry
  • Demonstrated creativity and innovation in problem-solving
  • Established scientific reputation with publications and presentations
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams

Responsibilities

  • Lead innovative research on synthetic methods for aza-heterocycles
  • Develop new catalytic strategies for efficient synthesis
  • Address challenges in heterocycle synthesis with sustainable methods
  • Stay current with the latest synthetic methodologies
  • Drive innovation and improve group capabilities
  • Engage in external scientific community through publications and presentations

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and families
  • Retirement benefits including 401(k)
  • Paid holidays and vacation days
  • Compassionate and sick leave
  • Eligibility for annual bonuses and long-term incentives
Full Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Process Chemistry group (located at our Boston, MA site located at our Boston, MA site) and develop next-generation synthetic methods for the preparation and diversification of pharmaceutically relevant aza-heterocycles. The successful candidate will lead an innovative research program focused on new catalytic strategies to rapidly access structurally nitrogen-containing heterocycles, including highly substituted piperidines and pyrrolidines. This research aims to address longstanding challenges in heterocycle synthesis by enabling efficient, modular, and sustainable routes to molecular architectures that are broadly relevant to modern drug discovery. The project combines mechanistic organic chemistry, catalytic method development, and molecular design, with opportunities for external collaboration, high-impact publication, and scientific presentation.

The candidate must be highly self-motivated, possess strong experimental skills, have excellent written and oral communication abilities, collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary teams and across geographies, and be able to demonstrate flexibility in adapting to change in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment. In addition, the candidate will be expected to remain current with the latest synthetic methodologies, drive innovation, apply new concepts to continuously improve group capabilities, and be active in the external scientific community via publications and external presentations.


We are particularly interested in candidates who are intellectually curious, highly collaborative, scientifically ambitious, and motivated to develop new synthetic strategies that can impact drug discovery. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical expertise in synthetic chemistry along with creativity, independence, and a commitment to scientific communication and collaboration.

Education Requirement:

  • Must currently hold a Ph.D. OR
  • Receive a Ph.D. no later than spring 2027
  • Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (highly preferred) or a related field.

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Must have conducted outstanding research in their field of expertise that may be shared during the interview process.
  • Demonstrated creativity and innovation in problem solving.
  • Productivity and efficiency working in the lab.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Excellent collaboration skills.
  • Established scientific reputation supported by publications and external presentations.

This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to develop enabling synthetic technologies that expand access to medicinally relevant chemical space while contributing to the next generation of sustainable catalytic methods.


The salary range for this role is: $82,000- $92,000

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 employee99s 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.

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

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We offer a comprehensive package of benefits.020Available 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.

Required Skills:

Chemistry, Data Analysis, Experimental Methods, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Scientific Presentations, Scientific Writing, Self Motivation, Synthetic Chemistry

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

Domestic

VISA Sponsorship:

Yes

Travel Requirements:

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

N/A

Job Posting End Date:

10/12/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFOREthe 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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Engage with us through our careers blog and by participating in networking events and employment fairs. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and the latest news tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Merck & Co, Inc. Join us in our mission to improve health and wellness around the world.
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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