Associate Principal Scientist, Preclinical Development

Merck • Rahway, NJ

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

As an Assoc Principal scientist, you will drive the creation of next-generation mammalian cell lines using a systems-level approach. You will be responsible for designing synthetic genetic circuits, managing large-scale multi-omics datasets, and utilizing Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to ensure the stability and productivity of therapeutic cell lines.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Systems Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; or a Master’s degree with 5–8+ years of industry experience.
• Strong programming skills in Python or R for biological data analysis.
• Experience with Linux/Unix environments and command-line bioinformatics tools (BWA, GATK, Samtools).
• Expertise in aseptic mammalian cell culture.
• Advanced molecular cloning techniques and genetic characterization (ddPCR, flow cytometry).
• Proven track record in library construction and data management for DNA-seq and RNA-seq workflows.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize complex DNA vector constructs and synthetic gene circuits to enhance protein expression in CHO cells.
• Use cutting-edge gene-editing tools for targeted knock-in/out strategies.
• Develop and apply computational models to understand cellular pathways and metabolism, predicting how genetic modifications impact global cell behavior and product quality.
• Build and maintain data pipelines to process high-dimensional datasets from high-throughput screening.
• Apply machine learning (ML) or deep learning (DL) models to inform experimental design and predict cell line performance.
• Lead NGS workflows, from library preparation to bioinformatics analysis.
• Use NGS to verify monoclonality, transgene integrity, and integration sites.
• Partner with Upstream, Downstream, and Analytical teams to deliver integrated CMC solutions.
• Author technical reports for regulatory filings (IND/BLA).

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree