Senior Scientist - Discovery Analytical Research (On-site)

Merck•Rahway, NJ
•$117,000 - $184,200•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Scientist will join the Discovery Analytical Research (DAR) group within the Analytical Enabling Capabilities (Analytical R&D) organization in Rahway, New Jersey. The role applies analytical platforms, separation sciences, high-resolution mass spectrometry, automation, and digital tools to accelerate drug discovery and inform the design and selection of therapeutic candidates. Working at the interface of discovery and early development, the scientist leads analytical method development across chemical modalities including small molecules, macrocyclic peptides, complex linker-payloads, and synthetic intermediates. The position collaborates with cross-functional teams to address scientific challenges, advance analytical technologies, and support data-backed candidate selection. It also contributes to high-throughput workflows, laboratory automation, and digital improvements while maintaining data integrity and documentation standards.

Requirements

  • Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline; alternatively, an M.S. in Analytical Chemistry or a related scientific discipline plus 7 or more years of relevant biopharmaceutical industry experience.
  • Deep expertise in HPLC/UHPLC method development and LC-MS characterization of synthetic small molecules and cyclic peptides.
  • Experience in MS-based structural confirmation and de novo elucidation of small molecules and complex peptides.
  • Hands-on experience operating, tuning, and troubleshooting modern Q-TOF and Orbitrap mass spectrometers.
  • Ability to independently balance multiple project priorities within tight timelines while maintaining scientific rigor.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive technical initiatives and collaborate effectively across multifunctional project teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong record of first-author peer-reviewed publications and presentations at major scientific conferences.

Nice To Haves

  • Experience integrating automated liquid handlers, such as Tecan or Agilent Bravo, into high-throughput analytical workflows.
  • Familiarity with automated data compilation, scripting, or analytical data-processing software, such as Python or R.
  • Hands-on experience with Acoustic Ejection Mass Spectrometry (AEMS/Echo-MS) or high-throughput mass spectrometry platforms.

Responsibilities

  • Design, optimize, and execute chromatographic separation methods, including HPLC, UHPLC, SFC, and SEC with UV-Vis, CAD, and MS multi-detector systems, to characterize physicochemical properties of small molecules and peptides.
  • Serve as a technical subject matter expert in HRMS and tandem mass spectrometry for structural confirmation and de novo sequence or structure elucidation of macrocyclic peptides and synthetic small molecules.
  • Contribute to evaluating and implementing next-generation measurement technologies, high-throughput workflows, and automated liquid-handling systems.
  • Implement automated data-processing and digital workflows to improve laboratory efficiency, analytical sample processing, database curation, and data visualization.
  • Partner with discovery teams, champion technical initiatives, and present scientific findings and updates at project meetings.
  • Maintain high standards of data integrity, ELN documentation, and Good Documentation Practices in accordance with organizational policies.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision healthcare and other insurance benefits for employees and family.
  • Retirement benefits, including 401(k).
  • Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate days, and sick days.
  • Eligible for an annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Senior

Education Level

Ph.D. or professional degree

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