Senior Scientist, DSCS Digital Technologies–Laboratory Automation, Automation Systems Engineer (Hybrid)

MSD•Rahway, NJ

2d•$117,000 - $184,200•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Scientist will help build the next generation of data-rich, connected laboratory environments within Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) Digital Technologies. The role designs and deploys automation solutions that combine robotics, instrumentation, software, and data systems to improve experimental speed, data quality, and scientific productivity. The position augments existing laboratory systems with custom solutions and connects instruments, robotics, and data into integrated workflows. Working closely with scientists, engineers, and digital technology specialists, the Senior Scientist translates research needs into scalable automated workflows and leads projects from concept through deployment. The role also improves automation platforms and provides practical support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using them. This position is based in Rahway, New Jersey, with a hybrid work arrangement and a first/day shift.

Requirements

A Ph.D. in Engineering (such as Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field; expected graduation must be no later than December 2026; or
A master's degree in one of the listed or closely related fields and at least 2 years of relevant experience; or
A bachelor's degree in one of the listed or closely related fields and at least 4 years of relevant experience.
Experience in a laboratory setting working with laboratory automation and equipment integration.
Experience with scripting or programming using accepted best practices, including version control, design patterns, and clean code.
Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/or analytical development.
Ability to work entrepreneurially and independently on cross-functional teams.
Effective scientific collaboration and communication skills, including the ability to navigate conversations with technicians and vendors.

Nice To Haves

Scripting or programming experience in one or more of Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, or R.
Experience with automation edge devices and controllers, such as PLCs and microcontrollers.
Experience with industrial SCADA or orchestration software, such as DeltaV, Ignition, or WinCC OA.
Experience with benchtop automated reactor systems, such as Sartorius Ambr250.
Experience with laboratory automation software, firmware, and hardware, and integrating them into end-to-end solutions.
Experience integrating laboratory instruments with custom or commercial software solutions.
Ability to recognize, design, prototype, and deploy innovative laboratory automation technologies.
Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to laboratory automation.
Wet-lab experience in (bio)pharmaceutical drug substance, drug product, and analytical research and development.
Experience with commercial laboratory notebook software such as Benchling or Signals.
Motivation to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity.
Deep interest in understanding how systems work; a maker, builder, or tinkerer mindset.

Responsibilities

Design automation systems that integrate robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions.
Partner with researchers to understand experimental needs and translate them into scalable automated workflows.
Collaborate with experts in automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering.
Lead projects from concept through deployment, working across teams and stakeholders.
Continuously improve existing automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability.
Integrate robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows.
Provide hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using automation systems.