Merck & Co, Inc

Senior Scientist, Discovery Oncology

Merck & Co, Inc$119K — $187K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in a relevant STEM discipline with 4-7 years of experience.
  • Expertise in oncology drug discovery through mechanistic cell-based assay development.
  • Strong hands-on experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques.
  • Proficiency in multi-color flow cytometry.
  • Ability to design experiments and critically interpret data independently.

Responsibilities

  • Design and perform cell-based assays using various methodologies.
  • Develop new experimental methods and protocols as needed.
  • Review and analyze published research to inform internal projects.
  • Contribute to the identification and validation of novel oncology targets.
  • Collaborate with various teams to integrate technology and pursue biological inquiries.
  • Partner with external organizations to advance research projects.
  • Communicate experimental data effectively to stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision healthcare coverages for employees and their families.
  • Retirement benefits including a 401(k) plan.
  • Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate leave, and sick days.
  • Opportunity for annual bonuses and long-term incentives.
Full Job Description
Job Description

We are seeking a highly qualified scientist with a strong background in Oncology to join our Discovery Oncology team in Boston. The successful candidate will have a track record of innovative and collaborative drug discovery research, demonstrated through contribution to drug discovery programs. Primary responsibilities will include designing and carrying out experiments in the lab to build and support projects in the early discovery pipeline. A track record of scientific excellence and experimental rigor is required. An ability to communicate clearly and collaborate effectively with colleagues within and outside of the discovery group will be essential.

The specific responsibilities of the candidate include but are not limited to:
  • Design, conduct, interpret and report cell-based assays using a wide range of established methodologies.
  • Develop new methods and protocols de novo when and where needed.
  • Monitor, review and critically interpret published work to guide internal research
  • Contribute scientifically to oncology drug discovery research programs, including identification and validation of novel targets.
  • Collaborate with discovery oncology, discovery chemistry, discovery biologics, pharmacology and genomics/pharmacogenomics to develop and integrate enabling technology and pursue key biological questions.
  • Work with external academic, biotechnology, and contract research organizations.
  • Ensure data generated is communicated in a concise, easy to understand manner to the appropriate teams and stakeholders.


Education:
  • Bachelor's (with 7 years), Master's (with 4 years) or Ph.D. in

Biology, Oncology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related STEM discipline and relevant experience in academic or industrial settings.

Required:
  • Expertise in supporting Oncology drug discovery programs through development of mechanistic cell-based assays.
  • Strong hands-on wet lab experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques.
  • Experience with multi-color flow cytometry.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently to design experiments, interpret, data, troubleshoot, and suggest next steps.
  • Candidate should be a strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills.


Preferred experience and skills:
  • Previous experience working with different therapeutic modalities in an industry setting such as small molecules and biologics.
  • Demonstrated ability to thrive in a team environment.


#EligibleforERP

Required Skills:
Assay Development, Cell-Based Assays, Cell Biology, Cell Culture Techniques, Flow Cytometry, Immunoassays, Immunoblots, Molecular Biology, Multi-Color Flow Cytometry, Oncology, Pharmacodynamics, Target Validation, Teamwork

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

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 click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

The salary range for this role is
$119,100.00 - $187,500.00

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 https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (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:
Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:
No

Hazardous Material(s):
BSL2, standard lab reagents

Job Posting End Date:
06/26/2026
*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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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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