Senior Scientist, Molecular Discovery

Merck • San Diego, CA

8d • Hybrid

About The Position

Our company is a global health care leader with a diversified portfolio of prescription medicines, vaccines and animal health products. The difference between potential and achievement lies in the spark that fuels innovation and inventiveness; this is the space where our company has codified its legacy for over a century.
Our Research and Development Division in San Diego is a cross-functional team (Discovery Biologics, Immunology, and Data Science) with the goal to discover and develop novel, innovative therapeutics in the field of Inflammation and Immunology. The Discovery Biologics Department is seeking a Senior Scientist with expertise in antibody expression and production workflows. This position offers a great opportunity to be a part of the early scientific team, and a key interface within global Discovery Biologics network and with Immunology and other functions across our company.
The successful candidate will carry out experiments in the lab to build and support projects in the early discovery pipeline, with focus on innovative antibody-based therapeutics. We recognize that the diversity in our team is our strength and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Successful candidates should demonstrate attention to detail, ability to work efficiently and collaboratively, a desire to learn, and be adaptable to thrive in a dynamic team environment.

Requirements

• Deep experience in protein structure/function and expert level utilization of computational tools to drive structure- and/or AI/ML-based protein design
• Demonstrated track record of engineering proteins with improved function or properties towards design targets
• Experience in designing protein expression constructs including vector selection, cassette design, cloning and validation
• Hands-on experience with cloning techniques, including Gibson assembly, plasmid characterization, and protein expression
• Proven proficiency in protein production workflows, including purification and analytical characterization
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and expression platforms (CHO, HEK293)
• Demonstrated strong communication skills and ability to multi-task and work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment
• Excellent organizational skills and High attention to detail
• Bachelor’s (with 7 years), Master’s (with 4 years) or Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology or related discipline with relevant laboratory experience described below

Nice To Haves

• Experience with antibody-based therapeutic modalities (mAb, VHH, bispecific Ab, antibody fusions)
• Experience in stable expression systems
• Expertise in cell culture process optimization to improve titer and productivity
• Experience with high throughput technologies and automation platforms

Responsibilities

• Design, engineer and characterize innovative biologics including antibodies and multi-specific molecules
• Protein production and purification including antibodies, target antigens and the critical protein reagents required for biologics discovery
• Biophysical characterization of novel therapeutic protein designs
• Exploring and applying new protein production technologies and strategies as needed
• Drive innovation by contributing to exploratory programs and platform technology development
• Collaborating with other teams to integrate new developments into future projects

Benefits

• 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

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