Biologics Process Research & Development, Associate Scientist

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our Company's Research Laboratories is on a mission to rapidly deliver biotherapeutics to patients by efficiently developing innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies. We work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, and Commercial Manufacturing while providing an inclusive environment for all. Beyond process development for pipeline biologics, we innovate and build next-generation biomanufacturing technologies, including continuous manufacturing, green and sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. We actively publish and engage with the scientific community to influence the field.

This role is within the Biologics Process Development (BPD) group, which focuses on upstream and downstream bioprocessing. We are seeking highly motivated individuals with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to bioprocessing.

About the role

As an Associate Scientist in Biologics Process Development (BPD), you will collaborate with a team of scientists and engineers to design, develop, and execute robust processes supporting early- to late-stage biological products. You will apply scientific principles to solve challenges in developing processes for life-changing medicines and contribute to areas such as biophysical, process, economic, or multivariate modeling. We leverage digital tools to enhance process design and robustness.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing processes.
• Develop and characterize robust clinical processes capable of delivering multi-kilogram quantities of drug substance.
• Independently design and conduct experiments for individual unit operations using relevant operational parameters and analytical inputs.
• Integrate unit operations both physically and with process control and monitoring platforms for concurrent operations.
• Collaborate across the department, process analytics, and other functional teams in Research & Development and manufacturing to advance the biologics pipeline.
• Conduct laboratory-scale and/or pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and tech transfer of processes.
• Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment.

Requirements

• BS (or expected completion within 6 months of application) in Chemical/Biochemical/Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Structural Biology, or related fields.
• Scientific understanding of engineering principles for recombinant protein production unit operations.
• Knowledge of aseptic technique, protein biophysical properties, and general protein laboratory practices.
• Strong passion and commitment to integrating science and innovation into biologics process development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with molecular biology, protein expression, mammalian cell culture, protein purification, biochemical engineering, or protein analytical technologies.
• Knowledge of statistical data analysis tools such as design of experiments and multivariate data analysis.

Skills

• Required: Bioprocesses, Biotechnology, Cell Cultures, Centrifugation, Chromatographic Techniques, Cross-Functional Teamwork, Data Analysis, Downstream Process Development, Evaluating New Technologies, Experimentation, Innovation, Laboratory Scales, Mammalian Cell, Mammalian Cell Culture, Membrane Filtration Systems, Microbiology, Molecular Microbiology, Process Scale-Up, Protein Biochemistry, Protein Expression, Protein Purifications, Scientific Methods, Structural Biology, Technology Transfer.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $71,900.00 - $113,200.00. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on 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, 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.

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 applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.