Principal Scientist, Peptide Formulation

Merck • South San Francisco, CA

7d • $176,200 - $277,300

About The Position

The Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences (DPS) group in South San Francisco is seeking a Principal Scientist with expertise in peptide formulation development and candidate selection. DPS supports drug delivery, pre-formulation, and formulation for peptides, biologics, and small molecules at the development and drug discovery interface. The group characterizes preclinical candidates’ physicochemical properties and works with partner groups to select candidates with optimal development properties while balancing other therapeutic properties. It also identifies preclinical formulations for pharmacology and toxicology studies and, where possible, first-in-human studies across administration routes and modalities.

In this role, you will characterize peptide modalities, support early formulation development and developability assessment, and explore delivery approaches. You will conduct early formulation screening and developability assessments, and recommend a single candidate in collaboration with partner functions. You will execute laboratory experiments with minimal supervision, generate and communicate key data, and develop strategies to optimize molecules and formulations. You will contribute to departmental scientific initiatives as an individual contributor and technical lead, including mentoring junior scientists. The role involves close interaction with Medicinal Chemistry, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Nonclinical Drug Safety, and Drug Product teams.

The successful candidate will bring expertise in characterizing peptide physicochemical properties, including oligomer state and fibrillation risk. A demonstrated record of problem-solving and innovation, such as through publications, talks, or patents, is highly appreciated.

Requirements

• PhD degree.
• At least 6 years of relevant industrial experience developing peptide formulations in preclinical or clinical stages.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Motivation to work in a team environment with cross-functional interactions.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in preclinical or clinical formulation development and physicochemical characterization of peptides.
• Experience in candidate selection and developability assessment.
• Experience in drug delivery technology.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and ability to drive innovation, as evidenced by publications, talks, or patents.

Responsibilities

• Characterize peptide modalities and their physicochemical properties, including oligomer state and fibrillation risk.
• Conduct early formulation screening and developability assessments.
• Develop formulation and drug delivery approaches for peptides.
• Recommend a single candidate in collaboration with partner functions.
• Execute laboratory experiments with minimal supervision and generate key datasets.
• Communicate the meaning of experimental data to project teams and develop strategies to optimize molecules and formulations.
• Contribute to departmental scientific initiatives as an individual contributor and technical lead.
• Mentor junior scientists.
• Work closely with Medicinal Chemistry, Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Nonclinical Drug Safety, and Drug Product teams.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

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