Merck & Co, Inc

Senior Director, Discovery Oncology, T-Cell Engagers

Merck & Co, Inc$194K — $305K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field with 10+ years of post-degree industry experience.
  • Extensive background in immuno-oncology with ability to translate insights into drug development strategies.
  • Proven track record of advancing multiple drug candidates into the clinic with hands-on IND filing experience.
  • Experience managing senior and junior scientists with a history of project leadership.
  • Strong collaborative skills within multidisciplinary teams to drive drug discovery initiatives.
  • Excellent attention to detail and communication skills.
  • Highly self-motivated with the ability to prioritize across multiple projects.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute the pipeline strategy for Oncology protein therapeutics with focus on T cell engagers.
  • Evaluate new therapeutic opportunities using expertise in cancer biology and the oncology landscape.
  • Provide oversight for programs transitioning from early discovery to late-stage clinical development.
  • Drive key pipeline milestones from preclinical selection through to clinical development stages.
  • Lead scientific evaluations for business development, identifying external assets aligned with strategic goals.
  • Contribute to strategy and staff development within the Discovery Oncology Leadership team.
  • Foster a high-performance culture emphasizing collaboration, inclusion, and engagement.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision healthcare for employees and family.
  • Retirement benefits including 401(k).
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick days.
  • Comprehensive insurance benefits.
Full Job Description

Job Description

The successful candidate will lead a team at our company's site in Boston delivering on the Oncology pipeline. They will be the strategic leader for Oncology protein-based therapeutics in Boston, including T cell engagers. They will develop and execute a comprehensive pipeline strategy, partnering across our company to expand our portfolio. This leader will work tightly with clinical, translational, and business development colleagues to build and progress an effective pipeline of compelling medicines, from discovery through late-stage development. The successful candidate will have a strong record of scientific excellence, thoughtful strategic planning, and inspiring people leadership.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute a forward-thinking pipeline strategy, shaping the future of our company's Oncology therapeutics with a focus on T cell engagers and other protein-based modalities.

  • Leverage your deep understanding of cancer biology and the current internal and external oncology landscape to evaluate the opportunity of new therapeutics.

  • Provide strategic oversight for programsas they transition from early discovery into and through late-stage clinical development, ensuring continuity and alignment with the overall asset strategy.

  • Drive key milestones for pipeline advancement, from preclinical candidate selection through to IND-enabling studies and support for early clinical development.

  • Lead business development evaluationsfrom a scientific perspective, identifying and championing external assets and platforms that align with our strategic vision.

  • As a member of the Discovery Oncology Leadership team, meaningfully contribute to the development and execution of strategy and the growth and development of staff.

  • Foster a high-performance culture of collaboration, engagement, self-accountability, and inclusion. Establish strong relationships within highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams to effectively drive drug discovery initiatives.

Required Qualifications / Education:

  • Ph.D. in Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, Oncology, Biophysics, Biologics or a related STEM field with10+ yearsof post-degree experience in industry or equivalent.

  • An extensive background in immuno-oncology with a proven ability to translate deep scientific insights intodrug development strategies from discovery through late-stage development.

  • A proven track record of successfully advancing multiple drug candidates into the clinic, includingdirect, hands-on experience with IND filings.

  • Experience managing a group of senior and junior scientists with a track record of achievements, including project leadership and strategic contributions.

  • Ability to build strong relationships within highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams to effectively drive drug discovery initiatives.

  • Excellent attention to detail and strong communication (oral and written) skills.

  • Highly self-motivated and capable of prioritizing deliverables among multiple projects.

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Preference will be given to candidates with a deep T cell biology background with extensive biotech/pharmaceutical experience.

  • Experience with modalities beyond T cell engagers is beneficial, particularly including antibody-drug conjugates.

Required Skills:

Assay Development, Biochemistry, Biologics, Cancer, Cancer Biology, Cancer Cell Biology, Cell Biology, Drug Discovery Research, Immunology, Immunotherapy, Innovation, Mentorship, Molecular Biology, Multidisciplinary Collaboration, Oncology, People Leadership, Strategic Management, Strategic Planning, T Cell Biology, T Cell Immunology, T Cells, Tumor Biology

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply

Current Contingent Workers apply

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:

The salary range for this role is

$194,100.00 - $305,600.00

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 employees 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:

Yes

Travel Requirements:

10%

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

n/a

Job Posting End Date:

07/24/2026

*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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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