Biologics Process R&D Senior Scientist

Job Description

Our Research Scientists are our Inventors.  Using innovative thinking, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust scientific methodology, we partner to deliver the next medical breakthrough.

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our Research Laboratories is on a mission to rapidly deliver diverse biotherapeutics to patients by efficiently developing innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies. To achieve this, we work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, and Commercial Manufacturing while providing a diverse and inclusive environment for all. Beyond process development for pipeline biologics, we innovate and build next generation biomanufacturing technologies. Examples include investments for development of continuous manufacturing, green and sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. We actively publish and engage with the scientific community to influence the field.

BPR&D includes three lab-facing technical functional areas: Process Cell Sciences (PCS), Upstream and Downstream Process Development & Engineering. The latter two together form our Biologics’ Process Development (BPD) group. This job posting covers opportunities for the BPD group.  We are actively looking for highly motivated people with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Innovation

  • Develop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing processes.

  • Apply rigorous scientific principles and data analyses to solve challenging problems related to developing robust, cost-effective processes.

• Experimental Design and Problem-Solving

  • Develop and characterize robust processes for delivering multi-kilogram quantities of life-changing medicines.

  • Design and conduct lab and/or pilot-scale studies to support mechanistic understanding, scale-up, and transfer of processes to manufacturing.

• Collaboration and effective communication:

  • Work with a collaborative, cross-functional team of talented scientists and engineers to advance the biologics pipeline from early- to late-stage development.

  • Partner with groups in both research and manufacturing divisions

  • Represent your functional area in cross-functional teams.

• Coaching and Mentoring

  • Train and mentor junior scientists in experimental design, execution, and data interpretation

• Safety and Compliance

  • Contribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environment.

MINIMUM EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

B.S. with 4 years, or M.S. with 3 years or PhD with 0+ years of relevant experience (or expected PhD graduation within 6 months from date of application) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or related fields

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• A proven ability to design and execute hands-on lab and/or in silico experiments.

• Proficiency with statistical design and analysis tools

• Excellent communication skills, ability to work in matrixed teams and collaborate with diverse partners cross-functionally.

• A demonstrated ability to think critically with excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills.

In addition to the required skillsets above, relevant experience is needed in either upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing as described below.

• Upstream

  • Knowledge of recombinant protein expression, metabolic pathways, biochemistry, and cell culture

  • Understanding of basic bioreactor principles, mass transfer kinetics

  • Understanding of cell & molecular biology

• Downstream

  • Sound scientific knowledge of protein properties and purification.

  • Understanding of unit operations such as chromatography, filtration, crystallization, precipitation, adsorption, mixing etc.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• History of external presentations and/or publications in peer-reviewed journals

• Data science, modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; proficiency with programming languages

• Evaluating and introducing novel technologies and analytical tools in process development and manufacturing

• Knowledge of protein biochemistry, biophysics, conjugation techniques

• Vector construction, Genetic Engineering, and Systems Biology

• Knowledge of cell-line development for protein expression in mammalian systems and suspension cell culture

• Hands-on experience with RNA and whole-genome (re)sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis

• High throughput experimentation using automation platforms.

• Familiarity with feed and media development for large-scale recombinant protein expression in mammalian systems

• Knowledge of Quality by Design, Process Characterization and Control Strategy development

#BPRD #PRD #EligibleforERP

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We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.  For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:

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U.S. Hybrid Work Model

Effective September 5, 2023, employees in office-based positions in the U.S. will be working a Hybrid work consisting of three total days on-site per week, Monday - Thursday, although the specific days may vary by site or organization, with Friday designated as a remote-working day, unless business critical tasks require an on-site presence.This Hybrid work model does not apply to, and daily in-person attendance is required for, field-based positions; facility-based, manufacturing-based, or research-based positions where the work to be performed is located at a Company site; positions covered by a collective-bargaining agreement (unless the agreement provides for hybrid work); or any other position for which the Company has determined the job requirements cannot be reasonably met working remotely. Please note, this Hybrid work model guidance also does not apply to roles that have been designated as “remote”.

The Company is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this job in certain states and cities within the United States. Final determinations with respect to salary will take into account a number of factors, which may include, but not be limited to the primary work location and the chosen candidate’s relevant skills, experience, and education.

Expected US salary range:

Available benefits include bonus eligibility, long term incentive if applicable, health care and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, paid holidays, vacation, and sick days. A summary of benefits is listed here.

San Francisco Residents Only: We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Los Angeles Residents Only: We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance

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Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company.  No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails. 

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