Job DescriptionThe Biocatalysis group within the Small Molecule Process Research & Development (SMPR&D) Department in Rahway, New Jersey is seeking a Principal Scientist to expand and deepen our capabilities for data science, data-rich experimentation, and laboratory automation technologies to invent, develop, and implement valuable biocatalytic processes across the pipeline. Our group creates biocatalysts with novel functions that enable efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes for our Company's portfolio. Our interdisciplinary team integrates biosynthetic logic, mechanistic investigation, data-rich experimentation, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, fermentation science, and advanced automation to drive innovation in drug discovery and development. The group collaborates broadly within our Company, with academic leaders, and with industry partners to grow and accelerate the impact of biocatalysis and protein engineering on human health.
Job Responsibilities:The Principal Scientist will provide scientific leadership, influence strategy, and collaborate with cross-functional teams of chemists, biologists, computer scientists, and engineers across the organization, including Process Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, DSCS Digital Technologies, and Information Technology. This role will focus both on developing enzymes and biocatalytic processes for small-molecule synthesis and implementing digital and laboratory automation technologies to accelerate enzyme engineering. Responsibilities include:
- Apply expertise in data science, automation, process development, and protein engineering to solve complex biocatalysis challenges.
- Lead development and implementation of digital tools and workflows for data ingestion, standardization, QC, visualization, and analysis.
- Integrate digital platforms and drive adoption of tools that connect experiments to scalable computational workflows and data-driven decisions.
- Drive the development of AI/ML and LLM-based approaches for experimental design, data mining, and longitudinal analysis.
- Lead the design and scaling of high-throughput automation for enzyme engineering, including biochemical assay setup and screening and process development.
- Partner with internal teams (DDT, IT) to implement digital and automation solutions that accelerate biocatalyst discovery and engineering.
- Provide technical leadership, communicate results, mentor scientists, and evaluate emerging technologies.
Education Requirements: - Ph.D., M.S, or B.S. degree in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a related field with a minimum of 7 (Ph.D.), 10 (M.S.), or 12 (B.S.) years of relevant industry experience.
Required Experience and Skills: - Demonstrated experience in biocatalytic process development.
- Demonstrated experience in enzyme engineering using directed evolution.
- Experience using Benchling for scientific data capture and workflow support.
- Experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput experimentation, and liquid-handling platforms such as Biomek, Firefly, Dragonfly, and Mantis.
- Proficiency in coding, including Python and SQL.
- Experience identifying and implementing digital and automation technologies that improve experimental workflows, data capture, and decision-making (data science).
- Proven ability to lead and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop scientific talent.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and project management skills.
- Track record of peer-reviewed publications, presentations, or other scientific contributions.
Preferred Experience and Skills: - Familiarity with the integration of automation, informatics, and data infrastructure in a research or development environment.
- Experience applying machine learning to protein engineering or enzyme design.
- Experience with biochemical, biophysical, and/or phenotypic characterization of proteins.
- Familiarity with the drug development process, particularly the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) function.
- Experience working in a matrixed organization and partnering effectively across scientific and technical functions.
Required Skills: Biochemistry, Bioconjugation, Biological Engineering, Biomolecular Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Computational Methods, Data Analysis, Drug Development, Enzymatic Activity Assays, Enzyme Kinetics, Enzymology, High-Throughput Experimentation (HTE), Organic Synthesis, Protein Characterization, Protein Chemistry, Research Proposal Development, Scientific Literature Search, Small Molecules, Structure Based Drug Design, Synthetic Chemistry
Preferred Skills: Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
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:No
Travel Requirements:10%
Flexible Work Arrangements:Not Applicable
Shift:Not Indicated
Valid Driving License:No
Hazardous Material(s):n/a
Job Posting End Date:10/2/2026
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