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Merck & Co., Inc.

Associate Principal Scientist, Cellular Pharmacology, Small Molecule

Merck & Co., Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, us, 02298

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Overview

Our Research Scientists are our Inventors. We identify and target steps in disease mechanisms or pathways that could be inhibited or enhanced. Our goal is to isolate a therapeutic agent that is effective against a disease target. Using innovative thinking, state-of-the-art facilities and robust scientific methodology we collaborate to discover the next medical breakthrough. The Cellular Pharmacology group in the department of Quantitative Biosciences is seeking a highly motivated, passionate, and creative Associate Principal Scientist that possesses the ability to work across a highly matrixed environment to advance preclinical programs from target identification/validation through IND enabling activities. The successful candidate will have a strong background in cell signaling and vitro models of inflammation and oncology and will play an essential role in developing assays with a cellular context for screening and translational relevance. This position will offer the candidate the opportunity to work broadly across different therapeutic areas and drug modalities while having opportunities to participate in and lead departmental initiatives/platforms. The position will be located at our Research & Development Division in Boston and we are uniquely positioned to complement the world-class biology and leading academic research centers in the area.

Responsibilities

Influence in vitro pharmacology strategy to advance programs from target validation to hit to lead and single candidate selection leveraging working knowledge of cellular pharmacology principles. Contribute expertise in cellular pharmacology to evaluate novel targets and multi modality drug candidates through designing key experiments to drive data driven decision making, including mechanism of action studies to establish biochemical/biophysical and translational PK/PD relationships. Support pipeline programs across all therapeutic areas (including oncology, autoimmunity, neuroscience, and metabolic disease) as a core team representative—articulating quantitative biosciences strategy, influencing the core team's vision to success, and delivering experimental data to drive decision-making in a timely manner to meet program milestones. Collaborate cross-functionally to develop capabilities, advance therapeutic programs and grow our scientific capital. Oversee routine molecular profiling bioassays to inform on structure activity relationship and support the development of new therapeutics across diverse modalities—including small molecules, peptides, and biologics. Document protocols and results, comply with all laboratory safety and environmental requirements. Take on increasing leadership responsibilities within the Quantitative Biosciences group and on project teams as you become more familiar with our Research & Development Division. Identify and apply emerging innovative methodologies to the development of advanced fit-for-purpose in vitro models that represent human disease pathology in support of research projects targeting inflammation, autoimmune indications, and oncology using different modalities. Mentor and train junior staff scientists and colleagues.

Experience

Deep understanding of biochemical and molecular biology principles with experience in developing mechanistic understanding of small molecules for the purpose of pharmacologically validating mechanism of action. Demonstrated expertise in applying cellular pharmacology principles to advance chemical entities from hit to lead to lead optimization and single candidate selection by independently designing, executing, and troubleshooting experiments that inform on dose projection and translation to the clinic, specifically in small molecules. Hands-on experience in developing engineered cell lines and implementing cell-based readouts including flow cytometry, qPCR, ELISA, transcriptional reporter gene assays, and major platforms such as Meso Scale Discovery and Alphalisa to inform on structure activity relationships. Strong understanding in at least one therapeutic area - oncology, autoimmunity, neuroscience, and metabolic disease. Hands-on experience with medium to high throughput assay-related data analysis and an appreciation for the related quantitative and statistical concepts to establish concentration response correlations to support structure activity relationships. Prior experience with small molecule cellular pharmacology. Experience with hetero-bifunctional molecules (e.g. PROTACS, molecular glues, etc) and/or targeted protein degradation is a plus.

Education

PhD in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, chemical biology, pharmacology, biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences or a related biological field with a minimum of 4 years post-Ph.D. experience [academia/industry] with publications; an M.S. degree with 8 years of industry experience; or a B.S./B.A. degree with a minimum 12 years of industry experience.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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We are proud to be a company that embraces diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another's thinking and approach problems collectively.

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US and Puerto Rico Residents Only: Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

U.S. Hybrid Work Model: Effective September 5, 2023, employees in office-based positions in the U.S. will be working a Hybrid work model with three on-site days per week; Friday remote, subject to business needs. See policy for details.

The salary range for this role is $141,900.00 - $223,300.00. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits (medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and sick time). More information is available at the employer's compensation and benefits page.

You can apply for this role through the company careers site. The application deadline is stated on this posting.

Relocation: Domestic. VISA Sponsorship: Yes. Travel Requirements: No Travel Required.

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This posting may include additional legal or policy notes; please review all posted information carefully.

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