Principal Scientist, Drug Discovery

Merck • Rahway, NJ

1d • $169,700 - $267,200 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Principal Scientist, Drug Discovery in our Research and Development Department will be responsible for identifying new molecular entities and technologies for use in animal health from our Company Laboratories or from external partners such as human pharma or biotech companies as well as academia. The successful candidate will be a key driver to advance novel targets and will lead these research programs from ideation through the early research and proof-of-concept phase up to the development stage. She/he/they will interface with researchers and senior management throughout the organization as well as external partners and operate within a matrix structure to garner resources for the necessary research work (Medicinal and Process Chemistry, in vitro Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Disease Models, Formulation Development, Safety & Toxicology). The position will report directly to the Distinguished Scientist and Global Head, our Company's Research & Development Liaison and Discovery – Non-infectious Diseases.

Requirements

• DVM/VMD degree.
• PhD in experimental pharmacology.
• Minimum of 8 years industry or pharmaceutical research experience in drug discovery or preclinical research with a focus on in vivo pharmacology.
• Advanced and thorough scientific knowledge in pharmacology, disease mechanisms, and related preclinical models.
• Expertise in one of the following fields: oncology, diabetes, respiratory & immunology, cardiology, pain & inflammation, reproduction, drug delivery, or biotechnology.
• Knowledge of regulatory aspects of pharmaceuticals including GLP, GCP, and GMP.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, including budgets, contracts, and timelines.
• Ability to independently plan, recommend, and complete research programs.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective creator of executive level presentations and documents.
• Experience in preparing patent applications in support of patent coverage of research efforts.

Nice To Haves

• Board certification in Pharmacology.
• Project management skills within pharmaceuticals.
• Experience in developing and managing collaborations with outsource providers, vendors, contractors, and academic institutions.
• Experience in working with business development to identify and license external technology opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Identifying new molecular entities and technologies for use in animal health from internal or external sources.
• Leading research programs from ideation through early research, proof-of-concept, and up to the development stage.
• Interfacing with researchers and senior management across the organization and with external partners.
• Operating within a matrix structure to secure resources for research activities.
• Managing multiple projects, including budgets, contracts, and timelines.
• Independently planning, recommending, and completing research programs.
• Preparing patent applications to support research efforts.

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