Job DescriptionPostdoctoral Research Fellow - OphthalmologyPosition OverviewWe are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our Ophthalmology Discovery Research team in South San Francisco, California. This position offers an exciting opportunity to investigate fundamental mechanisms that regulate retinal homeostasis, tissue repair, and pathological remodeling in ocular diseases.
The successful candidate will leverage state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo approaches to study various processes involved in retinal disease progression and recovery. This multidisciplinary project integrates molecular biology, advanced in vivo imaging, translational biomarker discovery, and systems-level data analysis to uncover novel mechanisms relevant to vision-threatening disorders.
The postdoctoral fellow will work in a highly collaborative environment alongside experts in retinal biology, pharmacology and translational science.
Key Responsibilities- Design and execute mechanistic in vitro studies using cell culture systems, functional assays, and molecular biology approaches to investigate disease mechanisms and therapeutic interventions.
- Conduct in vivo ophthalmology research in rodent models, including study execution and analysis of disease-relevant endpoints.
- Generate, analyze, and interpret complex biological datasets, integrating molecular, cellular, and multi-omics data to identify key pathways, mechanisms, and translational insights.
- Lead independent research initiatives and communicate scientific findings through presentations, publications, and active participation in internal and external scientific forums while contributing to a collaborative research environment.
Education Minimum Requirement- Must currently hold a PhD OR
- Receive a Ph.D. no later than spring 2027
- Ph.D. in Biology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology or related disciplines
Required Experience and Skills:- Demonstrated scientific excellence through a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and evidence of impactful research contributions.
- Hands-on expertise in molecular, cellular, and in vitro experimental techniques, with experience applying these approaches to address complex biological questions.
- Proven experience designing, conducting, and interpreting in vivo studies, including animal model development, execution, and data analysis.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently design experiments, interpret results, and drive research initiatives forward.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary, team-oriented environment while effectively presenting scientific findings to audiences.
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 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.
Required Skills:Data Analysis, Disease Models, Immunoassays, In Vitro Studies, In Vivo Studies, Molecular Biology, Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, Scientific Presentations, Study Design
Preferred Skills:Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.
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: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
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