Scientist, Protein Engineering

Merck•South San Francisco, CA

17h•Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail‑oriented Scientist to join our high‑throughput Protein Engineering team in South San Francisco, CA. The successful candidate will support the discovery and optimization of novel biologics through high‑throughput protein production, analytics, and screening. This role offers an excellent opportunity for an early‑career scientist to make a direct impact on therapeutic protein discovery in a collaborative, fast‑paced, and innovation‑driven environment. The position sits at the intersection of molecular biology, automation, and cutting‑edge biologics discovery, providing hands‑on exposure to modern protein engineering platforms. This role contributes to our company's mission to accelerate drug development by supporting conventional, computational, and AI/ML‑enabled approaches to biologics discovery. We recognize that our team is our strength and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Successful candidates must demonstrate inclusive behaviors in working with a group of scientists to drive our core mission.

Requirements

Strong experience with automation and high‑throughput experimentation, including hands‑on use of liquid handling platforms (e.g., TECAN, Dynamic Devices/Lynx, Hamilton) for cherry-picking, plate stamping, and plate re‑arraying
Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot experiments and strong analytical skills
Solid organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic and fast-paced research environment
Proficient with Excel and other spreadsheet‑based tools for data entry, analysis, and reporting
Experience with protein engineering, including molecular biology workflows, mammalian cell transfection, and protein purification
Experience in protein and antibody characterization using techniques such as SDS‑PAGE, CE‑SDS, analytical chromatography (SEC, RP‑HPLC), and intact mass spectrometry, ideally in a high‑throughput setting
Strong experience with binding and functional screening assays, including ELISA, flow cytometry (FACS), and/or biosensor assays (SPR/BLI)

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Python programming and data analysis workflows
Experience with proximity assays (e.g., AlphaLISA, HTRF)
Exposure to protein and antibody engineering concepts and workflows

Responsibilities

Operate automated and semi‑automated liquid handling platforms for high‑throughput protein engineering workflows.
Execute high‑throughput production of proteins and antibodies using standardized, automated processes, from molecular biology to protein purification.
Perform high‑throughput protein characterization and screening across multiple analytical assays.
Troubleshoot automation, assay, and workflow issues, and contribute to protocol optimization and standardization.
Collaborate with team members and cross‑functional partners to deliver project milestones.
Maintain accurate experimental records, sample tracking, and data analysis in electronic lab notebooks (ELN), registration and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
Present results and workflow improvements in group meetings.
Ensure lab organization and safety compliance.