Senior Scientist, Research Science

Merck•Upper Gwynedd Township, PA

3h•$106,200 - $167,200•Onsite

About The Position

The Senior Scientist will join the In Vitro Toxicology group within Nonclinical Drug Safety and develop and apply advanced in vitro models—including 3D tissue models, organoids, and microphysiological systems (MPS)—to address challenges and advance New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in nonclinical safety assessment. The role combines strong experimental expertise with strategic thinking, intellectual curiosity, effective communication, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to continuous learning. The successful candidate will develop and implement human-relevant model systems, conduct mechanistic studies of drug effects and toxicity, and translate complex data into useful insights for multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. The position also contributes to scientific strategy, evaluates emerging technologies, collaborates with internal and external partners, and shares findings through publications and scientific presentations.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Toxicology, Pharmacology, Biomedical Engineering, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline.
Demonstrated experience and expertise in cell-based assay development and complex in vitro model systems.
Strong record of scientific achievement through publications, presentations, or equivalent contributions.
Expertise in advanced cell-based models and experimental design.
Ability to generate high-quality, reproducible data and translate findings into actionable insights.
Strong communication, listening, collaboration, and scientific judgment skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience with organoids, tissue-engineered systems, organ-on-chip technologies, or microphysiological systems (MPS).
Knowledge of translational sciences, toxicology, or nonclinical safety assessment.
Experience evaluating and implementing emerging technologies and scientific innovations.

Responsibilities

Develop, qualify, and implement advanced in vitro assays and human-relevant model systems for investigative toxicology and nonclinical safety assessment.
Design and execute mechanistic studies to evaluate drug effects, toxicity mechanisms, and translational biomarkers.
Synthesize complex scientific data and communicate key insights to multidisciplinary teams, leadership, and non-technical stakeholders.
Evaluate emerging technologies and identify opportunities to advance scientific capabilities and decision-making.
Collaborate with internal and external partners in discovery, safety assessment, drug metabolism, and translational sciences.
Contribute to scientific strategy related to NAMs, MPS, and next-generation safety assessment approaches.
Publish findings and represent the organization through scientific presentations and collaborations.