Senior Scientist, Vaccines Analytical R&D
About The Position
The Vaccine Analytical Research & Development department is seeking applicants for a Senior Scientist position available at its West Point, Pennsylvania, research facility. The Senior Scientist is a laboratory-based scientific role that establishes and maintains laboratory automation and robotic systems used to support high-throughput analytical assays. The successful candidate will be tasked with solving complex analytical problems at the interface of biology, chemistry, and lab informatics to enable vaccine development, support process and formulation development, conduct vaccine investigations, and manage the method lifecycle. In this role, the individual will maintain and implement analytical methods on robotic platforms to support high-throughput automated biochemical, immunological, and cell-based assays. This lab-based position involves developing analytical methods, and the individual must possess the ability to translate these methods into fully automated workflows, including data handling and integration with digital tools. The successful candidate should cultivate and foster scientific and technological innovation, leverage external networks to stay current on industry best practices and emerging technologies in automation development, champion new initiatives, and seek to enhance functional capability and operational excellence. The candidate must be highly self-motivated, possess strong experimental skills, have excellent written and oral communication skills, collaborate effectively on multidisciplinary teams, and demonstrate adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.
Requirements
- Ph.D. degree in biomedical engineering, analytical chemistry, chemistry, biochemistry, or an engineering-related field, (with expected completion no later than May 2026) or M.S. degree with a minimum of 3 years of experience in the Biotech/Pharmaceutical Industry, or B.S. degree with a minimum of 7 years of experience in the Biotech/Pharmaceutical Industry.
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of liquid handlers, integrated robotic systems and software, and/or imaging methodology.
- Experience and knowledge of molecular biology, virology, and biochemistry techniques related to biologics or vaccine bioprocess. (such as ELISA, infectivity cell-based assay).
- Strong analytical capabilities, communication skills, ability to lead other scientists, demonstrated scientific knowledge in peer-reviewed journals, and strong presentation skills.
- A strong team player with excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to work both independently and cross-functionally for the development of assays.
- Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.
- Strong ability to deliver complex objectives under aggressive timelines in a rapidly changing environment
Nice To Haves
- In addition to the requirement, proficiency in computer programming languages, including Visual Basic, C#, MATLAB, Python, and/or R is desired.
- Experience with assay robustness evaluation and method qualifications, validations and transfers and familiar with relevant compendial guidelines (e.g., USP1220, ICH Q2/Q14)
- Evidence of strong cross-functional collaboration in an academic or industrial setting
Responsibilities
- Act as an expert in the laboratory, executing on method development and program deliverables.
- Coordinate with internal digital technology teams to assist in translating automation designs into operational, user-ready solutions.
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.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
Number of Employees
5,001-10,000 employees
