Senior Scientist, Analytical R&D (Onsite)

Merck•Rahway, NJ

6h•$117,000 - $184,200•Onsite

About The Position

The Pharmaceutical Analytical Sciences group is seeking a Senior Scientist based in Rahway, New Jersey. The role is part of a global team developing innovative analytical methodologies for early- through late-phase programs. Work applies to drug substances, a broad range of drug product dosage forms, combination products, and modalities, using analytical characterization, imaging tools, and data analysis. The position also contributes to regulatory submissions supporting clinical trials. The Senior Scientist addresses analytical development challenges for synthetic small-molecule, peptide, and oligonucleotide active pharmaceutical ingredients and pharmaceutical products, using conventional and novel technologies. The role spans laboratory analytical method development and implementation, release and shelf-life assessment of clinical supplies under GMP conditions, scientific study design, regulatory documentation, project leadership, and collaboration with internal and external partners. The position includes presenting experimental and innovation results and engaging with the external scientific community. Travel is listed as 5–10% in the responsibilities section, although another posting section states no travel required.

Requirements

PhD in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, or a related discipline; or a master’s degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline plus at least 3 years of pharmaceutical industry experience; or a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline plus at least 7 years of industry experience.
A proven record of strong technical problem-solving and innovative research experience, supported by scientific publications.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong leadership, collaboration, and interpersonal skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience characterizing large molecules, including oligonucleotides, enzymes, or peptides.
Experience developing, analyzing, and troubleshooting chromatography methods, such as LC or GC.
Experience with other advanced analytical techniques, such as mass spectrometry or dissolution.
Experience in data science.

Responsibilities

Drive solutions to analytical development challenges for synthetic small-molecule, peptide, and oligonucleotide active pharmaceutical ingredients and pharmaceutical products using conventional and novel technologies.
Design scientific studies to inform selection and understanding of synthetic routes, formulation compositions, and manufacturing processes.
Implement analytical methods for laboratory development and for release and shelf-life assessment of clinical supplies under GMP conditions.
Provide leadership on drug development pipeline projects and innovative technology teams developing future analytical methods and tools.
Author regulatory submission documents across the project development lifecycle and respond to agency questions.
Document work in a detailed and timely manner.
Collaborate effectively with internal and external partners.
Present experimental and innovation results to project teams and cross-functional forums.
Engage with the external scientific community through professional organizations, conferences, and publications.