Head of In Vitro ADME Bioassay Automation

Merck • Billerica, MA

21d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Head of In Vitro ADME Bioassay Automation to lead our automation initiatives within the in vitro assay laboratory. This role is crucial for enhancing our assay capabilities through innovative automation solutions, ensuring high-quality results that support our research and development goals. You will be responsible for the development and implementation of bioassays (ADMET assays, biochemical, & cell-based pharmacology assays) in an automated and high throughput manner. Together with the research scientists of your laboratory, you will establish and run the assays being used for the characterization of small molecules in different phases of preclinical Drug Discovery. Furthermore, you will scout and establish novel assays or technologies within our organization. You will work as a delegate of the Bioassay team in cross-functional project teams as well as in a customer focused role.

Requirements

• PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or other related science discipline)
• At least 10 years' experience in Pharma industry, Biotech or CRO.
• Experience with designing, executing, and analyzing ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity ), biochemistry, cell biology, or cell-based pharmacology assays.
• Experience in laboratory automation and management with expertise in developing and optimizing in vitro assays for different drug target classes
• Experience in compound characterization in a higher throughput fashion, using automation and data analysis
• Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to supervise research scientists
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Effective communication skills, capable of collaborating across various departments and with external partners, while maintaining a strong customer-centric mindset
• Excellent presentation skills, a good networker and communicator.
• Fluency in English is mandatory

Nice To Haves

• Experience with handling advanced cell culture models such as organoids, patient derived materials preferred.

Responsibilities

• Establish lab operational processes and automated assay workflows with a focus on high throughput, data quality, and reproducibility of results.
• Lead and manage the in vitro bioassay automation team including designing & developing assays, analyzing large LC-MS / pharmacology datasets ensuring high standards of performance, quality, and compliance with industry regulations.
• Work with internal and external collaborators and ensure data delivery to agreed timelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and align automation strategies to delivery objectives.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the laboratory, leveraging data and performance metrics to optimize processes.
• Mentor and develop laboratory staff, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
• Define the strategic roadmap for advancements in assay automation technologies and methodologies, integrating them into laboratory practices as appropriate.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, regulatory, and quality standards within the laboratory environment.

Benefits

• A collaborative and inclusive workplace that values innovation and diversity.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement in a dynamic industry.
• Competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.
• The chance to contribute to impactful scientific advancements that improve lives.

What This Job Offers

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