Director Functional Genomics (Billerica MA)

Merck Group • $182K — $274K *
Billerica, MA 01821In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
1 week ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or related field, or equivalent industry experience.
  • 10+ years in functional genomics, genetic engineering, or molecular biology in pharma or biotech.
  • Hands-on experience with pooled and arrayed CRISPR screens including NGS sample prep and initial analysis.
  • Proficiency in CRISPR genome editing across various human model systems.
  • Experience with industry-standard documentation in a pharmaceutical setting.
  • Proven leadership in building and managing high-performing research teams.

Responsibilities

  • Establish and lead a functional genomics lab, defining its scientific and operational strategies.
  • Recruit and mentor a team of scientists, fostering a culture of rigor and best practices.
  • Direct design and execution of CRISPR-based screens and genome engineering studies.
  • Translate genomic study results into prioritized drug targets for the pipeline.
  • Leverage multi-omic datasets and AI/ML image analysis for cellular phenotyping.
  • Lead collaborative data analysis with computational scientists.
  • Build partnerships across various scientific and governance groups.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to build a foundational capability in a leading global pharma company.
  • Intersection of functional genomics, multi-omics, and AI in drug discovery.
  • Diverse and inclusive culture with personal development and advancement opportunities.
  • Contribute directly to the development of novel therapeutics for Neurology & Immunology.
Full Job Description
The Role:

EMD Serono is seeking a Director, Applied Functional Genomics to join the Discovery Biology group within Research Unit Neuroscience & Immunology (RU-N&I) at our state-of-the-art research facility in Billerica, MA.

This is a unique opportunity to build and lead a functional genomics laboratory from the ground up - establishing a world-class capability that accelerates our genetics-first approach to target identification and validation of disease-relevance across the Neurology & Immunology portfolio. You will work collaboratively with computational scientists, cell biologists, disease experts, and cross-functional scientific leadership to translate outputs into pipeline-advancing decisions.

What You'll Do:
  • Establish and lead the functional genomics laboratory from inception - defining the scientific vision, experimental strategy, and operational infrastructure aligned with the genetics-first drug discovery approach.
  • Recruit, mentor, and lead a growing team of scientists - establishing SOPs, best practices, and a culture of scientific rigor.
  • Direct design and execution of pooled and arrayed CRISPR-based screens, genome engineering studies, cell line engineering, across disease-relevant human model systems (cell lines, primary immune cells, human iPSCs).
  • Translate CRISPR screen and genomic study outputs into prioritized targets, with quantified confidence in the biology and indication selection decisions that directly advance the Neurology & Immunology project pipeline.
  • Combine multi-omic datasets (single-cell, spatial, proteomics) and AI/ML-based image analysis for cellular phenotyping to accelerate target prioritization.
  • Lead data analysis and interpretation of screening outputs in close collaboration with computational scientists.
  • Build cross-functional partnerships across Discovery Biology, Computational Biology, Data Sciences and Innovation Clusters; represent the capability in governance forums and scientific meetings.


Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:
  • PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related life science discipline (or equivalent industry experience with demonstrated progressive scientific and leadership contributions).
  • 10+ years of progressive responsibility in functional genomics, genetic engineering, or molecular biology within pharma or biotech environments. Strong foundation of hands-on technical expertise that has evolved into proven leadership experience directing research teams, managing projects, and driving scientific strategy in these disciplines.
  • Direct experience executing pooled and arrayed CRISPR, CRISPRi/a, Perturb-seq screens end-to-end from guide and library design through NGS sample preparation and first-pass analysis (MAGeCK or equivalent).
  • Proficiency in CRISPR genome editing across cell lines, primary immune cells, and human iPSCs (guide design, delivery, clone isolation, validation).
  • Experience with documentation practices in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology discovery setting.
  • Proven track record of building and leading high-performing scientific teams.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with multi-omics datasets, single-cell or spatial technologies.
  • Working knowledge of R or Python to support quality control, exploratory data visualization, and facilitate effective collaboration with computational scientists.


Why Join Us?
  • Build a foundational capability from scratch - rare opportunity to shape scientific direction at a leading global pharma company.
  • Work at the intersection of functional genomics, multi-omics, and AI in a genetics-first drug discovery environment.
  • Join a diverse, inclusive, and flexible working culture with great opportunities for personal development and career advancement across the globe.
  • Be part of a team united for patients - contributing directly to novel therapeutics in Neurology & Immunology.

Location: On-site Billerica MA

Pay Range for this position: $182,600 - $274,000

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

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Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
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Industry
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
* Ladders Estimates

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