Scientist, Discovery Oncology

Merck • South San Francisco, CA

15h • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a self-motivated, inquisitive, and collaborative entry level scientist to join our Discovery Oncology group in South San Francisco. The successful candidate is enthusiastic about learning and building hands-on laboratory skills and will support both experimental work and day-to-day lab operations. The individual will work closely with senior scientists to perform in vitro assays, handle biological samples and reagents, and help maintain an organized, safe, and efficient laboratory environment.

Requirements

• Strong commitment to accurate, detailed, and well-organized record keeping, with a meticulous and orderly work style
• Demonstrated proficiency in mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of multiple cell lines using excellent aseptic technique
• Hands-on experience with internalization assays using Incucyte, copy number assessment by flow cytometry, cell proliferation studies, and a variety of 96-well plate-based assays
• Experience working with overexpressed cell lines and performing single-cell sorting for downstream applications
• Experience handling fresh human tumor tissue, including mechanical and/or enzymatic digestion to single-cell suspensions and subsequent cellular analysis
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to actively listen, ask clarifying questions, and communicate respectfully

Responsibilities

• Perform and support laboratory experiments under the guidance of senior scientists, including essential cell-based assays to evaluate potential therapeutics and target biology.
• Develop and apply core lab techniques such as cell culture, flow cytometry, and plate-based immunoassays (e.g., ELISA), including working safely with potent compounds and biohazardous materials.
• Handle and process fresh human tissue samples in a BSL-appropriate environment, including tissue receipt, mechanical and/or enzymatic dissociation into single-cell suspensions, cell counting and viability assessment, and downstream analysis using techniques such as flow cytometry and plate-based assays.
• Maintain clear, accurate, and well-organized experimental records in electronic lab notebooks and/or designated data systems.
• Assist with sourcing, receiving and tracking biological samples and reagents using company-approved channels, from initial request through order completion.
• Support efficient lab operations by coordinating equipment service requests, assisting with equipment disposal, and contributing to special projects that enhance the lab environment.
• Promote a strong lab safety culture by serving as a role model, participating in safety trainings and committee meetings, supporting audit activities, and helping to document and communicate safety observations to the team.

Benefits

• The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.
• More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level