Associate Principal Scientist, Respiratory Discovery

Merck•South San Francisco, CA

2d•$159,600 - $251,200•Onsite

About The Position

Within the Cardiometabolic Disease Discovery Biology organization, we are advancing innovative therapies for respiratory diseases, including COPD, bronchiectasis, and pulmonary vascular disease, to address significant unmet medical needs. We are seeking an Associate Principal Scientist with strong expertise in respiratory biology and translational research to contribute to target discovery, validation, and translational biology strategy across the respiratory portfolio. This role is suited for a highly independent scientist who can design and execute complex studies, generate high-quality scientific insights, and contribute effectively to cross-functional project teams within a matrixed drug discovery environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's (with 12+ years), Master's (with 8+ years) or Ph.D. (with 5+ years) in biology, pharmacology, physiology or a related scientific discipline and relevant preclinical and drug discovery experience
Strong expertise in respiratory biology and mechanism-based research
Proven ability to design hypothesis‑driven studies, analyze complex datasets, and contribute to scientific decision-making
Demonstrated experience contributing to discovery-stage programs
Ability to operate effectively within cross-functional, matrixed teams
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences
Drug Target Identification
Ex Vivo
In Vitro Studies
Program Leadership
Pulmonary Disorders
Respiratory Diseases Prevention
Respiratory Diseases Treatment
Respiratory Pharmacology
Target Validation

Nice To Haves

Deep knowledge of respiratory diseases, such as COPD, bronchiectasis and pulmonary vascular disease)
Hands‑on experience with human‑relevant experimental systems (e.g., primary airway epithelial cells, immune cells, fibroblasts, organoids, lung tissue models)
Experience with disease-relevant assays (e.g., inflammation, barrier function, mucociliary clearance, fibrosis/remodeling)
Understanding of translational research concepts, including target engagement, biomarker strategy, patient stratification, and PK/PD relationships
Experience in an industry drug discovery setting
Exposure to translational and biomarker-driven program strategies
Experience collaborating across disciplines and contributing to cross-functional scientific discussions
Familiarity with emerging technologies and approaches in respiratory and translational biology
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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
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Responsibilities

Contribute to target discovery and validation efforts across respiratory programs by integrating disease biology with translational insight
Independently design, execute, and interpret complex in vitro and ex vivo studies aligned with program goals
Develop and apply human-relevant model systems (e.g., primary airway epithelial cells, organoids, immune-stromal co-cultures, and lung tissue assays)
Generate, integrate, and critically evaluate diverse datasets to inform mechanism of action, target validation, and project decisions
Contribute to translational strategies, including biomarker plans, target engagement approaches, and disease-relevant endpoints
Serve as an active member of cross-functional project teams, contributing scientific insight and supporting milestone delivery
Collaborate with pharmacology, DMPK, biomarker, and translational partners to align preclinical biology activities with program objectives
Synthesize complex data and communicate insights, risks, and recommendations clearly to project teams and leadership
Maintain awareness of emerging science and technologies relevant to respiratory therapeutics
Share expertise with colleagues and contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, and continuous learning
Contribute to external collaborations, as needed, and support scientific interactions with key partners