Principal Scientist, Biocatalysis

Merck • Rahway, NJ

13d • $173,200 - $272,600 • Onsite

About The Position

The Biocatalysis group within the Small Molecule Process Research & Development (SMPR&D) Department is seeking a Principal Scientist to expand and deepen capabilities for data science, data-rich experimentation, and laboratory automation technologies. This role will invent, develop, and implement valuable biocatalytic processes across the pipeline. The group creates biocatalysts with novel functions that enable efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes. The interdisciplinary team integrates biosynthetic logic, mechanistic investigation, data-rich experimentation, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, fermentation science, and advanced automation to drive innovation in drug discovery and development. The group collaborates broadly within the company, with academic leaders, and with industry partners to grow and accelerate the impact of biocatalysis and protein engineering on human health.

Requirements

• Ph.D., M.S, or B.S. degree in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a related field with a minimum of 7 (Ph.D.), 10 (M.S.), or 12 (B.S.) years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in biocatalytic process development.
• Demonstrated experience in enzyme engineering using directed evolution.
• Experience using Benchling for scientific data capture and workflow support.
• Experience with laboratory automation, high-throughput experimentation, and liquid-handling platforms such as Biomek, Firefly, Dragonfly, and Mantis.
• Proficiency in coding, including Python and SQL.
• Experience identifying and implementing digital and automation technologies that improve experimental workflows, data capture, and decision-making (data science).
• Proven ability to lead and collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop scientific talent.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications, presentations, or other scientific contributions.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with the integration of automation, informatics, and data infrastructure in a research or development environment.
• Experience applying machine learning to protein engineering or enzyme design.
• Experience with biochemical, biophysical, and/or phenotypic characterization of proteins.
• Familiarity with the drug development process, particularly the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) function.
• Experience working in a matrixed organization and partnering effectively across scientific and technical functions.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific leadership, influence strategy, and collaborate with cross-functional teams of chemists, biologists, computer scientists, and engineers across the organization, including Process Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, DSCS Digital Technologies, and Information Technology.
• Apply expertise in data science, automation, process development, and protein engineering to solve complex biocatalysis challenges.
• Lead development and implementation of digital tools and workflows for data ingestion, standardization, QC, visualization, and analysis.
• Integrate digital platforms and drive adoption of tools that connect experiments to scalable computational workflows and data-driven decisions.
• Drive the development of AI/ML and LLM-based approaches for experimental design, data mining, and longitudinal analysis.
• Lead the design and scaling of high-throughput automation for enzyme engineering, including biochemical assay setup and screening and process development.
• Partner with internal teams (DDT, IT) to implement digital and automation solutions that accelerate biocatalyst discovery and engineering.
• Provide technical leadership, communicate results, mentor scientists, and evaluate emerging technologies.

Benefits

• medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family)
• retirement benefits, including 401(k)
• paid holidays
• vacation
• compassionate and sick days
• annual bonus
• long-term incentive

What This Job Offers

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