Merck & Co, Inc

Biologics Process R&D Senior Scientist

Merck & Co, Inc$117K — $184K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • B.S. with 4 years, M.S. with 3 years, or PhD with relevant experience in a related field
  • Hands-on experience in lab and/or in silico experiments
  • Proficiency in statistical design and analysis tools
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Experience in upstream or downstream bioprocessing
  • Excellent communication skills for cross-functional collaboration

Responsibilities

  • Develop next-generation biologic manufacturing technologies
  • Apply scientific principles to create cost-effective processes
  • Design and execute lab and pilot-scale studies
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance biologics development
  • Mentor junior scientists in process design and execution
  • Ensure a safe and compliant lab environment

Benefits

  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits for employees and families
  • Retirement benefits including 401(k)
  • Paid holidays and vacation
  • Compassionate and sick leave
Full Job Description

Job Description

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our Research & Development Division is on a mission to rapidly deliver diverse biotherapeutics to patients by efficiently developing innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies. To achieve this, we work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, and Commercial Manufacturing while providing a diverse and inclusive environment for all. Beyond process development for pipeline biologics, we innovate and build next generation biomanufacturing technologies. Examples include investments for development of continuous manufacturing, green and sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. We actively publish and engage with the scientific community to influence the field.

BPR&D includes three lab-facing technical functional areas: Process Cell Sciences (PCS), Upstream and Downstream Process Development & Engineering. The latter two together form our Process Development (PD) group that works on both the early- and late-stage pipeline. This job posting covers opportunities for the PD group. We are actively looking for highly motivated people with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Innovation
    • Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing processes
    • Apply rigorous scientific principles and data analyses to solve challenging problems related to developing robust, cost-effective processes
  • Experimental Design and Problem-Solving
    • Develop and characterize robust processes for delivering multi-kilogram quantities of life-changing medicines
    • Design and conduct lab and/or pilot-scale studies to support mechanistic understanding, scale-up, and transfer of processes to manufacturing
  • Collaboration and effective communication:
    • Work with a collaborative, cross-functional team of talented scientists and engineers to advance the biologics pipeline from early- to late-stage development
    • Partner with groups in both research and manufacturing divisions
    • Represent your functional area in cross-functional teams
  • Coaching and Mentoring
    • Train and mentor junior scientists in experimental design, execution, and data interpretation
  • Safety and Compliance
    • Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

B.S. with 4 years, or M.S. with 3 years or PhD with 0+ years of relevant experience (or expected PhD graduation by June 2027) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or related fields

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

  • A proven ability to design and execute hands-on lab and/or in silico experiments
  • Proficiency with statistical design and analysis tools
  • Excellent communication skills, ability to work in matrixed teams and collaborate with diverse partners cross-functionally
  • A demonstrated ability to think critically with excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills

In addition to the required skillsets above, relevant experience is needed in either upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing as described below.

  • Upstream
    • Knowledge of recombinant protein expression, metabolic pathways, biochemistry, and cell culture
    • Understanding of basic bioreactor principles, mass transfer kinetics
    • Understanding of cell & molecular biology
    • Downstream
      • Sound scientific knowledge of protein properties and purification
      • Understanding of unit operations such as chromatography, filtration, crystallization, precipitation, adsorption, mixing etc.
  • PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:
    • History of external presentations and/or publications in peer-reviewed journals
    • Data science, modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; proficiency with programming languages
    • Evaluating and introducing novel technologies and analytical tools in process development and manufacturing
    • Knowledge of protein biochemistry, biophysics, conjugation techniques
    • Vector construction, Genetic Engineering, and Systems Biology
    • Knowledge of cell-line development for protein expression in mammalian systems and suspension cell culture
    • Hands-on experience with RNA and whole-genome (re)sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis
    • High throughput experimentation using automation platforms
    • Familiarity with feed and media development for large-scale recombinant protein expression in mammalian systems
    • Knowledge of Quality by Design, Process Characterization and Control Strategy development

#BPRD #PRD #eligibleforERP

Required Skills:

Adaptability, Bioprocessing, Cross-Functional Teamwork, Data Analysis, Drug Delivery Technology, Flow Cytometry, High-Throughput Screening, Innovative Thinking, Interpersonal Relationships, Molecular Biology Techniques, Multi-Color Flow Cytometry, Preformulation, Process Optimization, Protein Biochemistry, Protein Purifications

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply

Current Contingent Workers apply

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 if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

The salary range for this role is

$117,000.00 - $184,200.00

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 .

You can apply for this role through (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:

Domestic

VISA Sponsorship:

Yes

Travel Requirements:

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

NA

Job Posting End Date:

11/25/2026

*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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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