Biologics Process R&D Scientist

Merck•Rahway, NJ

5d•$87,300 - $137,400

About The Position

The Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) group develops innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies to deliver biotherapeutics to patients. This posting covers opportunities in Process Development, which includes Upstream Process and Downstream Process Development & Engineering and supports both early- and late-stage biologics. The group collaborates with Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, Commercial Manufacturing, and other research and manufacturing functions. Its work includes pipeline process development and next-generation biomanufacturing technologies, such as continuous manufacturing, sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. As a Scientist, you will design and develop robust processes for biologics, applying rigorous scientific principles to support the company’s pipeline and production platforms. Work may also involve biophysical, reactor, process, economic, or multivariate modeling to advance digital approaches to process design.

Requirements

BS with 2+ years of relevant experience, or an MS degree (expected graduation by June 2027), in Chemical, Biochemical, or Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field, with research background in molecular biology, cell culture, or protein purification.
Experience in one or more of molecular biology, protein expression, mammalian cell culture, protein purification, biochemical engineering, or analytical technologies.
Scientific understanding of engineering principles behind recombinant protein production and purification.
Ability to comprehend and execute experiments independently.
Ability to organize, communicate, analyze, and present experimental data to draw conclusions and inform further study designs.
Knowledge of aseptic technique, protein biophysical properties, and general protein laboratory practices.
Ability to independently prepare technical documents and scientific presentations describing development progress, scientific investigations, and technology development output.
Basic understanding of statistical methods and data analysis tools.
Passion and commitment to integrating science and innovation into biologic process development.
Ability to excel in a collaborative, matrix environment.

Nice To Haves

Demonstrated ability to understand and operate bioanalytical techniques for characterizing microbial or cell culture processes.
Critical thinking and excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
Experience with high-throughput screening, automated bioreactor systems, and liquid handlers.
Experience transferring processes to clinical or commercial manufacturing facilities.
Knowledge of process control and workflow automation tools.
Strong foundation in statistical analysis, design of experiments, data science, computational modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; proficiency with programming languages.

Responsibilities

Develop innovative technologies for next-generation biologics manufacturing processes.
Develop and characterize robust clinical processes capable of delivering multi-kilogram quantities of therapeutics.
Design and conduct experiments related to cell-line development, upstream bioprocessing, or downstream bioprocessing.
Integrate unit operations with relevant process control and monitoring platforms.
Collaborate across BPR&D, process analytics, and other research and manufacturing functions to advance the biologics pipeline.
Conduct laboratory- or pilot-scale studies to support scale-up and technology transfer to manufacturing sites.
Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment.