Merck & Co, Inc

Scientist, Pharmacokinetics

Merck & Co, Inc • $108K — $170K *
South San Francisco, CA 94080In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's (3+ years) or Master's in biochemistry, biophysics, or related field.
  • Strong background in protein biochemistry/biophysics principles.
  • Hands-on experience with various biochemical/biophysical techniques.
  • Proficiency in data analysis using software like GraphPad Prism.
  • Excellent attention to detail and documentation practices.

Responsibilities

  • Perform routine and exploratory biochemistry and biophysics assays.
  • Partner with teams to design and execute assays.
  • Generate and analyze data with precision.
  • Contribute to the implementation of automation solutions.
  • Support development and optimization of protocols.
  • Communicate experimental plans and results effectively.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work in cutting-edge biologics drug development.
  • Collaboration with cross-functional teams.
  • Innovative environment focused on high-throughput and reproducibility.
  • Chance to develop and optimize new assays.
  • Engagement in a fast-paced research setting.
Full Job Description
Job Description

This position will support our Company's biologics drug discovery and development efforts in the Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) Group within the Pharmacokinetics, Dynamics, Metabolism and Bioanalytics (PDMB) organization at our Research & Development Division in South San Francisco.

The successful candidate will be a laboratory-based scientist responsible for generating in vitro and in vivo ADME and pharmacokinetic data to support biologics programs. The role applies strong foundational expertise in protein biochemistry and biophysics to understand how molecular properties influence clearance mechanisms and PK/PD relationships of biologics including antibodies, bi-/multi-specifics, peptides, conjugates, and other novel modalities.

We are seeking a flexible, curious, and proactive scientist with strong protein biochemistry/biophysics expertise and a passion for both reliably executing routine, decision-enabling assays and developing and optimizing new assays that support biologics programs across multiple therapeutic areas. In this role, the scientist will have the opportunity to work closely with project teams and partner groups across our network to advance drug discovery efforts. Candidates who are enthusiastic about supporting pipeline needs through high-quality, reproducible assay execution, motivated to investigate mechanistic drivers of protein interactions, and interested in automation and biophysical techniques are especially encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform routine and exploratory biochemistry and biophysics-based assays, including protein biochemistry and biophysical interaction assays to quantify receptor binding, cellular trafficking and degradation, non-specific binding/clearance and other DMPK properties of biologics.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to design, optimize, and execute assays aligned with project needs
  • Generate and analyze data with high attention to detail, and maintain complete and accurate electronic laboratory notebooks
  • Contribute to the implementation of automation solutions and semi-automated workflows to increase throughput and reproducibility
  • Support the development and optimization of protocols and standard operating procedures and maintain and troubleshoot instruments
  • Communicate experimental plans and results clearly via written reports and verbal presentations


QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:
  • Bachelor's (with 3+ years) or Master's in biochemistry, biophysics, biotechnology, bioengineering, pharmacology or a related scientific discipline and relevant laboratory experience


Required Experience and Skills:
  • Strong foundation in protein biophysics/biochemistry principles, with the ability to apply these concepts in a biological or translational context (eg., protein interactions, binding kinetics, intracellular trafficking, in vivo clearance)
  • Hands-on experience with biochemical/biophysical techniques to characterize proteins (e.g., immunoprecipitation, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, SPR/BLI, meso scale discovery, fluorescence spectroscopy, NMR/ HDX/MS)
  • Ability to analyze, troubleshoot, organize, and interpret data, with familiarity using software such as GraphPad Prism, Excel, or similar tools
  • Excellent attention to detail, strong documentation practices, and the ability to work in a fast-paced research environment
  • Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and communication skills with a collaborative and growth-oriented mindset


Preferred Experience and Skills:
  • Experience with biologics DMPK assays, such as receptor binding kinetics, drug/receptor internalization, and cellular trafficking assays
  • Experience in cell culture and execution of cell-based functional assays
  • Experience quantifying protein concentrations in biological matrices using ligand-binding assays (e.g., ELISA, meso scale discovery, etc.)
  • Prior experience with Octet/BLI, SPR, or similar biophysical techniques
  • Exposure to automation, liquid handlers, or high-throughput assay systems


#EligibleforERP

Required Skills:
Biochemistry, Biophysics, Flow Cytometry, Fluorescence Spectrometer, Intracellular Trafficking, Kinetic Studies, Mass Spectrometry (MS), Molecular Biophysics, Protein Interactions

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

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:
07/8/2026
*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.

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.

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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
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Net Income
$7 billion
Founded
1668
5 Year Trend
+4.1%
Revenue
$47.9 billion
NASDAQ
MRK
* Ladders Estimates

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