Associate Principal Scientist, Discovery Analytical Research

We are seeking an Associate Principal Scientist to join our Vaccine Discovery Analytical Research team located in West Point, PA.

About the role

In this role, an individual will work with a team of scientists to develop and implement state-of-the-art analytical techniques including numerous chromatographic and electrophoretic separations coupled with absorbance, fluorescence, mass spectrometric, and other detectors. The ideal candidate will lead assay development, drive scientific contributions at the program level, mentor junior scientists, and engage with partner groups and project teams to help the company select the best candidates to advance from discovery to development, de-risk critical animal studies, and streamline transfer of analytical work to downstream organizations and external partners.

Responsibilities

• Lead assay development for vaccine analysis.
• Drive scientific contributions at the program level.
• Mentor junior scientists.
• Engage with partner groups and project teams to advance candidates from discovery to development.
• De-risk critical animal studies.
• Streamline transfer of analytical work to downstream organizations and external partners.
• Evaluate and implement new analytical technologies.

Requirements

• Ph.D. with at least 3 years of experience in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Immunology, or a closely related field.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of chemistry and separations (especially UPLC operated with multiple separation types and electrophoretic separations of various types) demonstrated in publications.
• Experience with detection and analysis of small molecule-protein interactions.
• At least 3 years of experience with analytical method development.
• Proven ability to mentor and lead junior scientists.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical issues related to separation methodologies.
• Independent analytical problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven track record of publications with strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Capable of multi-tasking and managing multiple projects.
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with analysis of biological molecules.
• Experience with assay robustness evaluation.
• Solid computer skills and ability to create custom code-enabled analysis workbooks.
• Experience with automated laboratory instrumentation.
• Experience with biophysical methodologies.
• Working knowledge of small molecule chemistry, structural biology, and biochemistry with applications to viruses, virus-like particles, proteins, and DNA/RNA.
• Subject matter expertise in analysis of proteins, peptides, and lipids.
• Familiarity with wet chemistry techniques applicable to vaccines.

Skills

• Analytical Chemistry
• Analytical Thinking
• Biological Assay Development
• Biologics
• Cell-Based Assays
• Chemistry
• External Collaboration
• Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS)
• Mass Spectrometry Analysis
• Process Analytical Technology (PAT)
• Separation Techniques
• Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC)
• Small Molecules

Pay

The salary range for this role is $142,400.00 - $224,100.00. 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.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including:

• 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 Merck Compensation and Benefits.

Schedule

• Travel Requirements: 10%
• Employee Status: Regular
• Relocation: Domestic