Biologics Process Research & Development Scientist

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our 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.

BPR&D includes three lab-facing technical functional areas: Process Cell Sciences (PCS), Upstream Process Development (UPD), and Downstream Process Development & Engineering (DPDE). This role covers opportunities across all three areas. We seek highly motivated individuals with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to one or more of these technical functions.

About the role

As a Scientist in Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D), you will collaborate with creative and collaborative team members to design and develop robust processes supporting early- and late-stage biologics. You will innovate to advance our biologics pipeline and production platforms through rigorous scientific principles, applying and integrating innovation into biologic process sciences to establish industry leadership in next-generation biologics manufacturing. You may also contribute to areas such as biophysical, reactor, process, economic, and/or multivariate modeling, leveraging digital tools to enhance robust process design.

Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologics manufacturing processes.
• Develop and characterize robust clinical processes capable of delivering multi-kilogram quantities of therapeutics.
• Design and conduct experiments related to cell-line development, upstream or downstream bioprocessing.
• Integrate unit operations with relevant process control and monitoring platforms.
• Collaborate across BPR&D, process analytics, and other functional areas in research and manufacturing to advance the biologics pipeline.
• Conduct laboratory- and/or pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing sites.
• Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment.

Requirements

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s Degree with 2+ years of relevant experience or master’s degree in Chemical/Biochemical/Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fields with research background in molecular biology, cell culture, or protein purification.

• Experience with one or more of: molecular biology, protein expression, mammalian cell culture, protein purification, biochemical engineering, or analytical technologies.
• Scientific understanding of the engineering principles behind recombinant protein production and purification.
• Ability to comprehend and execute experiments independently.
• Ability to organize, communicate, analyze, and present experimental data to drive conclusions and further study designs.
• Knowledge of aseptic technique, protein biophysical properties, and general protein laboratory practices.
• Demonstrated ability to independently prepare technical documents and scientific presentations to capture development progress, scientific investigations, and technology development output.
• Basic understanding of statistical methods and data analysis tools.
• Strong passion and commitment to integrate science and innovation into biologic process development.
• Ability to excel in a collaborative and matrix environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated capabilities in understanding and operating bioanalytical techniques to characterize microbial or cell culture processes.
• Critical thinking with excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Experience with high throughput screening, automated bioreactor systems, and liquid handlers.
• Experience with process transfer to clinical or commercial manufacturing facilities.
• Knowledge of process control and workflow automation tools.
• Strong foundation in statistical analysis, design of experiments, data science, or computational modeling.

Skills

• Aseptic Technique
• Bioanalytical Techniques
• Biomanufacturing
• Bioreactor Operation
• Cell Culture Process Development
• Cell Cultures
• Conducting Experiments
• Cross-Functional Teamwork
• GMP Compliance
• High Throughput Screening (HTS) Systems
• Mammalian Cell Culture
• Manufacturing Processes
• Microbial Fermentation
• Molecular Biology
• Process Optimization
• Process Scale-Up
• Product Development
• Protein Expression
• Protein Purification
• Technical Leadership
• Technical Transfer

Pay

The salary range for this role is $87,300.00 - $137,400.00. 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.

Schedule

• Travel Requirements: 10%