Director Functional Genomics (Billerica MA)

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Billerica, MA

5d•$182,600 - $274,000•Onsite

About The Position

EMD Serono is seeking a Director, Applied Functional Genomics to join the Discovery Biology group within Research Unit Neuroscience & Immunology (RU-N&I) at our state-of-the-art research facility in Billerica, MA. This is a unique opportunity to build and lead a functional genomics laboratory from the ground up — establishing a world-class capability that accelerates our genetics-first approach to target identification and validation of disease-relevance across the Neurology & Immunology portfolio. You will work collaboratively with computational scientists, cell biologists, disease experts, and cross-functional scientific leadership to translate outputs into pipeline-advancing decisions.

Requirements

PhD in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related life science discipline (or equivalent industry experience with demonstrated progressive scientific and leadership contributions).
10+ years of progressive responsibility in functional genomics, genetic engineering, or molecular biology within pharma or biotech environments. Strong foundation of hands-on technical expertise that has evolved into proven leadership experience directing research teams, managing projects, and driving scientific strategy in these disciplines.
Direct experience executing pooled and arrayed CRISPR, CRISPRi/a, Perturb-seq screens end-to-end from guide and library design through NGS sample preparation and first-pass analysis (MAGeCK or equivalent).
Proficiency in CRISPR genome editing across cell lines, primary immune cells, and human iPSCs (guide design, delivery, clone isolation, validation).
Experience with documentation practices in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology discovery setting.
Proven track record of building and leading high-performing scientific teams.

Nice To Haves

Experience with multi-omics datasets, single-cell or spatial technologies.
Working knowledge of R or Python to support quality control, exploratory data visualization, and facilitate effective collaboration with computational scientists.

Responsibilities

Establish and lead the functional genomics laboratory from inception — defining the scientific vision, experimental strategy, and operational infrastructure aligned with the genetics-first drug discovery approach.
Recruit, mentor, and lead a growing team of scientists — establishing SOPs, best practices, and a culture of scientific rigor.
Direct design and execution of pooled and arrayed CRISPR-based screens, genome engineering studies, cell line engineering, across disease-relevant human model systems (cell lines, primary immune cells, human iPSCs).
Translate CRISPR screen and genomic study outputs into prioritized targets, with quantified confidence in the biology and indication selection decisions that directly advance the Neurology & Immunology project pipeline.
Combine multi-omic datasets (single-cell, spatial, proteomics) and AI/ML-based image analysis for cellular phenotyping to accelerate target prioritization.
Lead data analysis and interpretation of screening outputs in close collaboration with computational scientists.
Build cross-functional partnerships across Discovery Biology, Computational Biology, Data Sciences and Innovation Clusters; represent the capability in governance forums and scientific meetings.