Merck & Co, Inc

Sr. Scientist, Neuroscience Biomarker Discovery - Biomarker Mechanisms

Merck & Co, Inc • $117K — $184K *
Boston, MA 02115In-Person
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Today
Be an Early Applicant
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Master's in related STEM field with 6+ years industry experience or PhD with hands-on relevant experience.
  • Expertise in human in vitro models for neurodegenerative disease modeling.
  • Experience with multi-omics techniques such as proteomics and single-cell RNA sequencing.
  • Proven track record linking target biology to physiological outcomes.
  • Strong communication skills and ability to thrive in collaborative settings.

Responsibilities

  • Design and conduct targeted perturbation studies in human in vitro systems.
  • Utilize multi-omics approaches to establish links between drug action and biomarker modulation.
  • Generate mechanistic data packages to inform biomarker panel prioritization.
  • Develop novel disease models for biomarker response interrogation.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including biologists and AI scientists.
  • Present complex findings and recommendations to stakeholders.

Benefits

  • Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
  • Potential for domestic relocation assistance.
  • Visa sponsorship available for eligible candidates.
  • Engagement in a collaborative work environment.
  • Access to cutting-edge research and technology.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Job Title: Senior Scientist- Neuroscience Biomarker Discovery

Location: Boston, MA (On-Site)

In this unique role, you will leverage your expertise and understanding of the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders and human iPSC and/or preclinical models and employ targeted or omics-based methods to decipher biological mechanisms that link the change in biomarkers to the drug and target mechanism of action. Ultimately, these data packages will enable prioritization of biomarker panels and help interpret clinical datasets.

Primary Responsibilities:
  • Design and execute targeted perturbation studies using human in vitro systems and (e.g., hiPSC-derived neurons, astrocytes, microglia or complex organoids) collaborate on in vivo preclinical models to map the causal biological cascade from target engagement to downstream biomarker responses.
  • Employ advanced multi-omics approaches (Especially Proteomics, Metabolomics and single-cell RNA sequencing) combined with pharmacological interventions to establish clear, mechanistic links between disease states, drug action, and measurable biomarker modulation from a temporal and spatial perspective.
  • Generate robust mechanistic data packages that provide confidence in target biology. Use these insights to directly inform and prioritize candidate fluid and imaging biomarker panels for translation into early-stage clinical trials.
  • Establish and adopt novel disease models that allow for the interrogation of target biology and downstream biomarker responses in CNS tissues and biofluids.
  • Thrivein an agile, highly collaborative environment, partnering closely with bench biologists, disease experts, AI/ML scientists, and clinical colleagues.
  • Deliver excellent written and oral presentations to clearly communicate complex findings and strategically aligned recommendations to key stakeholders.


Required Qualifications:
  • Master's in molecular biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Immunology, Neurology, Genetics/Genomics, or related STEM fields with minimum 6 years of relevant industry experience OR PhD in molecular biology, Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Immunology, Neurology, Genetics/Genomics, or related STEM fields with hands-on relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated hands on expertise in human in vitro model systems (such as hiPSC neurons, astrocytes, microglia and/or complex organoids) for modeling disease neurodegeneration or neuroinflammation.
  • Demonstrated experience in generating insights into target or disease mechanisms particularly by leveraging multiomic approaches such as proteomics, imaging, metabolomics and RNA based methods such as single cell sequencing and/or spatial technologies.
  • A proven track record of experimental models to decipher mechanisms of action and linking target biology to physiological or biomarker outcomes in the context of human disease.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills and thrive in an agile, highly collaborative environment, partnering closely with bench biologists, AI/ML scientists, and clinical colleagues.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Deep expertise in adeptly utilizing proteomic datasets (bulk proteomics and PTM analysis) to uncover novel disease mechanisms, target engagement markers, and pathway biology in Neurodegeneration.
  • Proven ability to analyze and interpret RNA sequencing datasets in conjunction with proteomic data such as Proteogenomic workflows and/or integration of genomics data in protein expression analysis.
  • Adept at independently analyzing multiomic datasets to derive mechanistic insights.
  • Demonstrated expertise in generating hypotheses or contextualizing mechanistic findings using external academic consortia and human datasets (e.g., ROSMAP, ADNI, BioFINDER, PPMI).


#EligibleforERP

Required Skills:
Assay Development, Biochemical Assays, Biomarkers, Biomedical Research, Cell Culture Techniques, Disease Models, Disease Research, Flow Cytometry, High Content Screening, In Vivo Models, Mechanism of Action, Molecular Biology, Neurodegeneration, Neuroscience, Omics, Organoid Culture, Pharmaceutical Translations, Preclinical Research, Protein Purifications, Signaling Pathways, Teamwork, Transcriptomics

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

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):
BSL2, OEB4, Bloodborne pathogens

Job Posting End Date:
09/21/2026
*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.

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

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at Merck & Co, Inc

More Pharmaceuticals & Biotech Jobs

Find similar Sr. Scientist, Neuroscience Biomarker Discovery - Biomarker Mechanisms jobs:

NationwideBoston, MA