Associate Principal Scientist, Process Chemistry

Merck•Rahway, NJ

1d•$142,400 - $224,100•Onsite

About The Position

The Process Chemistry organization located at our Rahway, NJ site is seeking a highly motivated and accomplished process chemist to play a key role in advancing our pipeline of drug substances, including small molecules, macrocyclic peptides, and bioconjugates. This position offers an opportunity to provide scientific leadership in the design and development of efficient, scalable, and robust manufacturing processes from discovery through commercialization. The successful candidate will lead the development of innovative synthetic routes and practical manufacturing processes, drive critical technical and strategic decisions across programs, and influence the advancement of process chemistry capabilities within the organization. Responsibilities include identifying and implementing enabling technologies, solving complex chemistry challenges, leading cross-functional collaborations, supporting technology transfers, and mentoring junior scientists. The candidate will also be expected to contribute to the external scientific community through publications, patents, presentations, and professional engagement. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and process development, a proven record of scientific innovation and technical achievement, and the ability to operate effectively in a highly collaborative and dynamic environment.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry or a related discipline.
Minimum of 4 years of relevant industrial experience following completion of a Ph.D., with demonstrated success in small molecule process chemistry.
Proven track record of scientific excellence and significant research accomplishments in synthetic organic chemistry and process development.
Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, reaction design, and mechanistic understanding.
Demonstrated creativity, innovation, and scientific rigor in solving complex chemistry challenges.
Proven ability to develop practical, scalable, and commercially viable chemical processes.
Strong laboratory productivity, technical execution, and data interpretation skills.
Demonstrated success in advancing process chemistry programs from early development through late-stage development and/or commercialization.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to scientific and non-scientific audiences.
Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams and global organizations.
Demonstrated ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, drive strategy, and shape scientific decision-making.
Proven record of mentorship, talent development, and technical leadership.
Demonstrated external scientific impact through publications, patents, presentations, and participation in the broader scientific community.
Analytical Chemistry
Analytical Development
Chemical Processes
Chemical Processing
Chemical Products
Chemical Synthesis
Clinical Judgment
Computational Chemistry
Data Analysis
Enzymology
Evidence Based Decision Making
Experimental Development
Lead Optimization
Molecular Structure
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Organic Chemistry
Synthetic Chemistry
Technology Transfer
US Patent

Nice To Haves

Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:
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 the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Responsibilities

Provide scientific leadership for the design, development, and optimization of scalable chemical processes across multiple development programs and modalities.
Lead the resolution of complex chemistry and manufacturing challenges through innovative process design and mechanistic understanding.
Develop practical, robust, and cost-effective manufacturing routes suitable for clinical and commercial supply.
Drive process characterization, optimization, scale-up, and technology transfer activities in collaboration with analytical, engineering, manufacturing, quality, and regulatory partners.
Influence project strategy and key technical decisions through strong scientific insight and data-driven recommendations.
Identify and implement emerging technologies and modern synthetic methodologies to enhance process efficiency and capability.
Mentor and develop scientists within the department while fostering a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
Represent Process Chemistry on cross-functional teams and effectively communicate technical strategies and project outcomes to senior leadership and external stakeholders.
Contribute to the scientific community through publications, patents, presentations, and professional service activities.