Merck & Co, Inc

Senior Scientist, Molecular Discovery

Merck & Co, Inc • $131K — $206K *
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, Master's, or Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, or related discipline with relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated expertise in SPR or BLI technologies for molecular interactions analysis.
  • Hands-on experience in experimental design and biophysical binding assay development.
  • Experience in characterizing proteins or antibodies related to drug discovery.
  • Solid understanding of protein structure and biophysical principles.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills with multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

  • Design and execute experiments to characterize molecular interactions using SPR and biosensors.
  • Develop and troubleshoot various biophysical binding assays.
  • Collaborate with computational teams to create high-quality datasets for AI/ML workflows.
  • Contribute data to support candidate evaluation and optimization.
  • Explore and implement new technologies to enhance assay performance.
  • Communicate experimental findings through reports and presentations.
  • Mentor junior scientists and foster a collaborative team environment.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work at the cutting edge of drug discovery.
  • Involvement in diverse biologics pipeline impacting health outcomes.
  • Access to cutting-edge technologies and methods.
  • Engagement in a collaborative, inclusive culture.
  • Potential for domestic and international relocation assistance.
Full Job Description

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join the Protein Sciences department within Discovery Biologics in South San Francisco. This role will focus on design and execution of molecular interactions assays to advance biologics discovery, lead optimization of next-generation biologics modalities.

The successful candidate will primarily work at the bench and is expected to work both independently and collaboratively to plan and design experiments. These experiments will use SPR and related techniques to generate high-quality kinetic and affinity data that inform candidate selection, optimization, and development strategy across a diverse biologics pipeline. This position offers the opportunity to work at the interface of biophysics, protein engineering, and computational design, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to impact drug discovery.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design, execute, and interpret experiments to characterize molecular interactions using SPR (Biacore) and related biosensor platforms

  • Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot assays across multiple binding formats (e.g., antibody-antigen, multivalent, complex systems)

  • Partner with computational and protein engineering teams to produce high-quality datasets supporting AI/ML-driven design workflows

  • Contribute data to candidate evaluation, selection, and optimization decisions, as well as our structured data capture product

  • Explore and implement new technologies and methods to enhance assay throughput, robustness, and data quality

  • Communicate findings clearly through technical reports and presentations to project teams, departmental forums, and leadership

  • Mentor junior scientists or research associates as needed and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education:

  • Bachelor's (with 7+ years), Master's (4+ years) or Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology or related discipline with relevant experience described below

Required Experience and Skills:

  • Demonstrated expertise in SPR/BLI and/or other biosensor technologies for analyzing molecular interactions

  • Strong hands-on experience in experimental design, assay development, and troubleshooting for biophysical binding assays

  • Experience characterizing proteins and/or antibodies in the context of drug discovery or protein engineering

  • Solid understanding of protein structure, protein-ligand interactions, and biophysical principles

  • Ability to analyze complex datasets and draw clear, actionable conclusions

  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet timelines in a fast-paced environment

  • Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams

  • Champion for diverse and inclusive culture

Preferred Experience and Skills:

  • Experience with high-throughput or automated assay platforms and generation of structured datasets for downstream computational analysis

  • Familiarity with AI/ML-enabled protein engineering workflows and data generation strategies

  • Experience with complementary techniques such as FACS, Kinexa, ITC, ELISA, and Meso Scale Discovery

  • Experience with cell-based binding or functional assays

  • Proficiency with data analysis tools, databases, and electronic lab notebooks

  • Discovery project team membership and meaningful contribution to project advancements


#EligibleforERP

Required Skills:

Antibodies, Arts Development, Assay Development, Biacore, Biochemistry, Biophysical Techniques, Biosensors, Enzyme Kinetics, Ligand Binding, Molecular Biology Techniques, Protein Analysis, Protein Binding, Protein Characterization, Protein Interactions, Protein Structure

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply

Current Contingent Workers apply

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

Domestic/International

VISA Sponsorship:

Yes

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:

07/22/2026

*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.

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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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