Sr. Scientist, Chemistry

Our Process Chemistry organization at the Rahway, NJ site is seeking highly motivated and exceptional chemists to work in a fast-paced environment with a high degree of technical responsibility. Join a vibrant group of innovative scientists focused on designing clinical supply routes for drug candidates and driving solutions to complex chemistry problems in the discovery phase.

About the role

As a process team member, you will design and develop efficient, scalable manufacturing routes and clinical supply processes for multi-modality drug substances—including small molecules, macrocyclic peptides, and bioconjugates—supporting preclinical through clinical deliveries in our internal facilities and enabling successful tech transfer.

Responsibilities

• Act as an expert in the laboratory, executing on program and chemistry strategy.
• Develop innovative solutions to complex chemistry problems across a diverse portfolio of projects and modalities.
• Design and develop efficient processes for clinical campaigns, involving extensive reaction design and optimization to ensure scalability and reproducibility.
• Research and evaluate chemical routes, optimize reaction conditions, and ensure reproducibility at scale.
• Conduct process demonstrations and tech transfers.
• Stay current with modern synthetic methodologies and drive continuous improvement and innovation within the group.
• Engage with the external scientific community through publications and presentations.

Requirements

• PhD in Organic Chemistry (achieved by June 2027) or a Ph.D. in chemistry with experience in methodology/catalysis (including chemocatalysis, biocatalysis, and heterogeneous catalysis), total synthesis, physical organic chemistry, or flow chemistry.
• Demonstrated record of outstanding research suitable for discussion during the interview process, with strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work comfortably within a team of scientists and engineers with diverse technical and cultural backgrounds.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with exceptional written and oral communication abilities.
• Proven track record of solving complex problems.
• Highly self-motivated with strong experimental skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary teams.
• Adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.

Skills

• Required: Chemical Reactions, Chemistry, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Inorganic Chemistry, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Laboratory Techniques, Organic Chemistry, Organic Synthesis, Physicochemistry, Process Chemistry, Reaction Mechanisms, Scientific Literacy, Scientific Presentations, Scientific Research, Scientific Writing, Synthetic Chemistry, Technical Writing, Technology Development.
• Preferred: Experience with modern synthetic methodologies and catalysis.

Pay

The salary range for this role is $117,000.00 - $184,200.00. 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 also 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.

Employee Status: Regular. Relocation: Domestic. VISA Sponsorship: Available. Travel Requirements: 10%.