Principal Scientist, Translational Immunology & Antibody Discovery Innovation

Merck•South San Francisco, CA

1d•$176,200 - $277,300

About The Position

Merck is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist for its Discovery Biologics group in South San Francisco. The scientist will bring broad and deep expertise in adaptive immunity and B-cell biology to help define the future of immunization-based antibody discovery capabilities. The role works closely with team members and groups across the organization to manage, perform, and troubleshoot antibody discovery programs. The Principal Scientist will propose and lead technology development initiatives for immunization-based de novo antibody discovery, with the goal of improving candidate hit quality and shortening timelines. The role also involves leading and participating in cross-functional discovery project teams with therapeutic area scientists, staying current on external scientific and technology advances, and promoting the external reputation of the Discovery Biologics department. The successful candidate will foster a collaborative, accountable, inclusive, and high-performance culture.

Requirements

Ph.D. in biophysics, biochemistry, structural biology, or a related science discipline, with 8+ years of experience and relevant industry experience.
Expertise in vaccine discovery and therapeutic development.
In-depth knowledge of adaptive immunity and B-cell biology.
Track record of driving scientific and platform innovations in vaccine discovery and development.
Experience leading therapeutic vaccine discovery programs.
Established external reputation through publications, presentations, and/or scientific community engagement.
Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Nice To Haves

Experience utilizing AI/ML to support discovery strategy initiatives.

Responsibilities

Propose and lead technology development initiatives for immunization-based de novo antibody discovery to improve candidate hit quality and decrease timelines.
Lead and participate in cross-functional discovery project teams in partnership with therapeutic area scientists.
Foster a high-performance growth mindset culture of collaboration, engagement, self-accountability, and inclusion.
Stay abreast of external advancements in relevant scientific and technology fields.
Promote the external reputation of the Discovery Biologics department.
Help manage, perform, and troubleshoot antibody discovery programs.