Senior Scientist, Chemistry - Onsite

MSD • Rahway, NJ

6d • $117,000 - $184,200 • Onsite

About The Position

We seek a highly motivated and skilled chemist as a Senior Scientist to join our Labeled Compound Synthesis (LCS) group within the Discovery Process Chemistry organization located at our Rahway, NJ site. This role offers the opportunity to join a unique group of innovative laboratory scientists focused on synthesizing isotopically labeled compounds, essential to support drug discovery and development, and developing novel isotope labeling methodologies to enable and speed up and accelerate drug discovery and development. As a Senior Scientist, you will work on collaborative teams to design and synthesize stable and radioactive isotope-labeled drug candidates and metabolites using modern organic synthesis, analytical methods, and emerging technologies. We seek a motivated chemist who will become a subject-matter expert in isotopically labeled compound synthesis—including GMP synthesis for human ADME studies—and who demonstrates strong practical skills in complex molecule design, laboratory instrumentation, and problem solving. Creativity and adaptability are required to develop new labeling approaches, along with self‑initiative, attention to detail, and project planning skills. Excellent interpersonal ability to share specialist knowledge in multidisciplinary teams is essential. If you are passionate about synthetic organic chemistry and thrive in a dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply.

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge and experience with modern methods of organic synthetic chemistry.
• Skilled in analytical and purification techniques (including chromatography and crystallization)
• Good organizational, interpersonal, writing, and time management skills.
• Keen attention to detail and ability to author clear reports and review the reports of others.
• Ability to strictly follow established procedures, policies, and guidelines required to comply with safety/radiation safety, environmental, and GMP expectations in the lab.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, apply, and/or improve new workflows and best practices.
• Demonstrated ability to design and conduct experiments, generate and analyze data, properly dispose of waste, and work effectively in a dynamic environment.
• A Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field achieved no later than June 2026. Or M.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field with at least 3 years of industrial/ pharmaceutical experience. Or B.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field with at least 5 years of industrial/pharmaceutical experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with stable and/or radioactive isotopes is desirable but not required.
• Experience with the synthesis of large molecules (peptides, RNAs, ADC-conjugates, etc.) is desirable but not required

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: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees