Merck & Co, Inc

Scientist, Molecular Discovery

Merck & Co, Inc$87K — $137K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree with 3+ years or Master's in molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology or related field.
  • Proficiency in protein purification methods (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion chromatography).
  • Expertise in culturing mammalian cells for protein expression.
  • Experience in generating protein expression constructs (vector selection, cassette design, cloning, validation).
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate in a cross-functional team.

Responsibilities

  • Express and purify therapeutic proteins and target antigens.
  • Test and characterize the developability of therapeutic proteins.
  • Screen novel therapeutic protein designs in biochemical and cell-based assays.
  • Drive innovation by contributing to exploratory programs and platform technology development.
  • Collaborate with teams on portfolio programs.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and families.
  • Retirement benefits including 401(k).
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick days.
  • Opportunities for annual bonuses and long-term incentives.
Full Job Description

Job Description

Our Research and Development Division in San Diego is a cross-functional team (Discovery Biologics, Immunology, and Data Science) with the goal to discover and develop novel, innovative therapeutics in the field of Inflammation and Immunology. The Discovery Biologics Department is seeking a Scientist with expertise in  protein design, production and characterization to contribute to our Biologics portfolio. This position offers a great opportunity to be a part of the early scientific team, and a key interface within the global Discovery Biologics network and with Immunology and other functions across our company.  

The successful candidate will carry out experiments in the lab to build and support projects in the early discovery pipeline, with focus on innovative antibody-based therapeutics. We recognize that the diversity in our team is our strength and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Successful candidates should demonstrate attention to detail, ability to work efficiently and collaboratively, a desire to learn, and be adaptable to thrive in a dynamic team environment.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Express and purify therapeutic proteins, target antigens and the critical protein reagents required for advancing our biologics discovery  programs

  • Test and characterize the developability of therapeutic proteins

  • Screen novel therapeutic protein designs in biochemical and cell based assays

  • Drive innovation by contributing to exploratory programs and platform technology development.

  • Collaborating with teams on portfolio programs

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

  • Bachelor’s (with 3+ years) or Master’s in molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology or related discipline with relevant laboratory experience described below

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Proficiency in protein purification methods including affinity chromatography, Ion exchange chromatography, and size exclusion chromatography

  • Expertise culturing mammalian cells and utilizing for protein expression

  • Experience generating protein expression constructs including vector selection, cassette design, cloning and validation.

  • Demonstrated strong communication skills and ability to multi-task and work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.

  • Excellent organizational skills and high attention to detail.

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Previous experience in protein binding assays including ELISA, our company and cell-based binding assays

  • Experience in stable expression systems

  • Experience with high throughput technologies and automation platforms

#EligibleforERP 

Required Skills:

Chromatography, Cloning, Mammalian Cell Culture, Protein Expression, Protein Purification Methods, Validation, Vector Analysis

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

$87,300.00 - $137,400.00

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:

No

Travel Requirements:

No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

1st - Day

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

n/a

Job Posting End Date:

07/2/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFOREthe 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.

Merck & Co, Inc Careers

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.

Explore Career Paths

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.

Innovate and Lead

Merck & Co, Inc is an ideal environment for those who lead with curiosity and the drive to innovate. Our leadership is committed to fostering a culture where inventive thinking and collaboration are encouraged, making it a perfect place for professionals who seek to make an impact through their work.

Develop Your Skills

With Merck & Co, Inc, you are not just getting a job; you're gaining access to unparalleled career development opportunities. Enhance your skills through diverse training programs, workshops, and continuous learning courses designed to help you grow at every stage of your career.

Benefits and Culture

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.

Join Our Team

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.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. Engage with us through our careers blog and by participating in networking events and employment fairs. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and the latest news tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Merck & Co, Inc. Join us in our mission to improve health and wellness around the world.
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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