Scientist, Pharmacokinetics

We are seeking a highly motivated, collaborative scientist to support mass spectrometry-based immunogenicity assessment within the Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK) group.

About the role

The successful candidate will contribute to the execution of MHC-Associated Peptide Proteomics (MAPPs) studies and related LC-MS workflows used to characterize antigen presentation and support biologics, conjugates, and peptides programs. This laboratory-based role involves working in a multidisciplinary environment alongside scientists in immunology, bioanalysis, and mass spectrometry, with opportunities to present findings at departmental meetings and contribute to scientific publications.

Responsibilities

• Execute MAPPs (MHC-associated peptide proteomics) experiments to support immunogenicity risk assessment of therapeutic candidates.
• Maintain and expand human cell cultures, including routine cell maintenance, cell counting, viability assessment, and preparation of samples for downstream analysis.
• Perform immunoaffinity enrichment workflows, including antibody-based capture, antigen processing, and sample preparation for LC-MS analysis.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot LC-MS instrumentation, including Orbitrap-based high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.
• Generate, document, and review high-quality experimental data following established laboratory procedures and data integrity standards.
• Support optimization of sample preparation workflows and laboratory automation initiatives to improve efficiency and reproducibility.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, consumables, and records while ensuring compliance with safety and quality requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s (with 3+ years of relevant laboratory experience) or Master’s in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands-on experience with fundamental laboratory techniques, including pipetting, sample preparation, buffer preparation, and laboratory documentation.
• Understanding of immunoaffinity (IA) or antibody-based enrichment techniques.
• Experience operating or supporting LC-MS workflows and bioanalytical instrumentation.
• Experience maintaining mammalian cell cultures and performing routine cell-based laboratory procedures.
• Familiarity with high-resolution mass spectrometry (e.g., Orbitrap) platforms and associated data acquisition software.
• Ability to collect, document, and analyze experimental data.
• Understanding of research principles and experimental methodology.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, organization, and commitment to generating high-quality scientific data.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of MAPPs (MHC-associated peptide proteomics) workflows and immunogenicity assessment strategies.
• Familiarity with Thermo Scientific Orbitrap mass spectrometry platforms, including Eclipse Orbitrap systems.
• Experience with proteomics sample preparation, peptide characterization, and mass spectrometry-based proteomics workflows.
• Experience with automated liquid handling systems, robotics, or laboratory automation platforms.
• Experience using proteomics data analysis software such as Proteome Discoverer, MaxQuant, Genedata Expressionist, Peaks, or related tools.
• Experience working in a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or research-driven environment.

Skills

• Required: Antibodies, Biochemistry, Cell Culture Techniques, Laboratory Documentation, Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), Mammalian Cell Culture, Mass Spectrometry (MS), Pharmacokinetics, Pipetting, Sample Preparations.
• Preferred: Proteomics data analysis, laboratory automation, high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $108,000.00 - $170,100.00. 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 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 https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

Schedule

• 1st shift (Day).
• Regular, full-time employment.