Leader of Structure Biology and Protein Chemistry

Merck Group$237K — $355K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field with 10+ years in biotech/pharmaceuticals.
  • At least 5 years of leadership experience managing scientific teams.
  • Experience delivering drug discovery programs from target validation to clinical candidates.
  • Hands-on expertise in protein expression, purification, and characterization.
  • Proficiency in structure determination technologies (e.g., X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, NMR).
  • Record of impactful publications in drug discovery related to structural insights.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and set strategic direction for structural biology and protein chemistry in drug discovery.
  • Drive drug discovery programs from target validation to clinical candidate stage.
  • Integrate structural, functional, and mechanistic data into therapeutic decisions.
  • Manage external collaborations and contributions to patent strategies.
  • Mentor and develop junior scientists in the team.
  • Collaborate closely with biology, pharmacology, and DMPK disciplines.
  • Promote scientific excellence and contribute to intellectual property initiatives.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage
  • Paid time off (PTO) benefits
  • Retirement contributions
  • Potential for performance-based bonuses
  • Additional company perquisites
Full Job Description
Your Role

At the intersection of structural science and therapeutic innovation, this role offers a rare opportunity to define how structure-guided insights translate into life-changing medicines. As Director, Structural Biology & Protein Chemistry, you will lead a team of more than ten scientists, setting the strategic direction for structural biology and protein chemistry across a broad and ambitious drug discovery portfolio. You will drive programs from target validation through to early clinical candidates, integrating structural, functional, and mechanistic data to inform medicinal chemistry, antibody engineering, and therapeutic modality decisions. Operating with significant autonomy, you will partner closely with biology, pharmacology, and DMPK functions, manage external collaborations and CRO partnerships, and contribute to IP strategy by translating structural findings into patentable discoveries. You will also champion scientific excellence and mentor the next generation of structural biology talent.

Who You Are

Basic/Minimum Qualifications:
  • PhD in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a closely related field, with at least 10 years of relevant experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sector.
  • Minimum 5 years of direct leadership or managerial experience, with a demonstrated ability to build, develop, and retain high-performing scientific teams.
  • Proven track record of delivering drug discovery programs from target validation through to clinical candidates, including Pre-IND or IND-enabling experience.
  • Hands-on expertise in the expression, purification, stabilization, and biophysical characterization of challenging protein targets, including membrane and soluble proteins.
  • Proficiency in at least one structure determination technology, such as X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), with experience in hybrid or integrative structural approaches.
  • Record of high-impact publications demonstrating structural and mechanistic insights relevant to drug discovery.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with emerging therapeutic modalities, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, PROTACs, or covalent inhibitors.
  • Established external network with academic institutions or industry partners to accelerate drug discovery programs.
  • Experience contributing to patent filings and intellectual property strategy based on structural biology findings.
  • Familiarity with modern data management, bioinformatics, and collaboration tools used in structural biology and drug discovery.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex structural data clearly to senior leadership and non-specialist stakeholders.


Pay Transparency

Pay Range for this position: $237,300.00 - $355,900.00

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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