Principal Scientist, High Throughput Production and Automation Group Leader, Discovery Biologics

Merck • Boston, MA

5d • $194,100 - $305,600 • Onsite

About The Position

The Principal Scientist will lead the molecular biology and high-throughput protein production team within the Biologics Production and Engineering group in Boston Discovery Biologics, while providing matrix oversight of automated experimental solutions across the broader organization. The role oversees a high-throughput production queue that converts protein engineering and hit-identification designs into screening sets of fit-for-purpose therapeutics. The position partners with Early Biotherapeutics Characterization to streamline handoffs for deeper characterization and developability analysis before produced molecules are released to project teams. The scientist will apply expertise in semi- to fully automated approaches for biologics discovery, improve ways of working, and support pipeline programs by integrating computational and wet-lab approaches with state-of-the-art automation.

As a people manager, the Principal Scientist will lead and develop staff, foster collaboration and accountability, support recruiting, and champion inclusion. The role provides scientific and strategic leadership to four FTEs and partners with teams across Discovery Biologics, Therapeutic Areas, and multidisciplinary interfaces. The position is based in Boston, Massachusetts, and requires 10% travel. The role is regular employment, with domestic or international relocation and visa sponsorship available.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in a listed or related STEM field with at least 8 years of relevant industry experience; or a Master's degree with at least 12 years; or a Bachelor's degree with at least 14 years of relevant industry experience in biochemistry or a related field.
• A record of increasing responsibility and independence in a similar industrial setting.
• Experience supporting biologic therapeutic discovery programs.
• Extensive production group leadership experience, including a track record of talent acquisition, retention, and development.
• Deep expertise in state-of-the-art high-throughput molecular biology and protein production methods.
• Experience developing, adapting, and sustaining integrated automated biologic production and characterization platforms, including automated data capture.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, matrixed reporting model while supporting multiple projects in parallel.
• Established external reputation through high-impact publications, presentations, and/or scientific community engagement.
• Required skills include antibody discovery, assay development, automation, biologics, expression vectors, high-throughput screening, molecular biology techniques, people management, protein expression and purification, structural biology, and therapeutic proteins.

Nice To Haves

• Therapeutic project leadership experience resulting in candidate selection and beyond.
• Experience with protein therapeutics beyond antibodies, including higher-valency and complex Fc-containing therapeutics, fusion proteins, and antigens.
• Leadership experience designing and deploying integrated, walkaway automated biologic production and characterization platforms.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific and strategic leadership to a team of four FTEs.
• Lead continuous improvement of physical and digital workflows and guide future expansion of automated workflows.
• Manage outsourcing CROs for molecular biology and protein production to maximize internal resources.
• Partner with teams within Discovery Biologics and across multidisciplinary interfaces to achieve organizational objectives.
• Manage the fleet of liquid handlers, including Dynamic Devices, TECAN, and Hamilton systems, and associated peripheral equipment.
• Support and co-lead Discovery Biologics therapeutic programs with Therapeutic Areas.
• Mentor and develop scientists, building a high-performing and engaged team by leveraging individual strengths.
• Stay current with external scientific advances and promote the external reputation of Discovery Biologics.
• Champion an inclusive culture and support recruitment of highly skilled talent.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision healthcare and other insurance benefits for employees and family.
• Retirement benefits, including a 401(k).
• Paid holidays.
• Vacation.
• Compassionate and sick days.
• Annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

What This Job Offers

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