Merck
2026 Future Talent Program - Discovery Chemistry & Process Research - Co-op
Merck, Rahway, New Jersey, us, 07065
Overview
The Future Talent Program features co-ops that last up to 6 months and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Research & Development Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. The Discovery Chemistry and Process Research departments are seeking Co-ops with a passion for scientific research, strong academic performance, communication skills, and the ability to work on cross-functional teams. Co-ops will be integrated members of company project teams, working in state-of-the-art laboratories to solve fundamental synthetic or biological problems relevant to drug discovery and development. Responsibilities
Work in an organic synthesis laboratory to invent novel biologically active compounds and chemical reactions relevant to the synthesis of drug-like molecules (e.g., small molecules, cyclic peptides, and bioconjugates). Conduct day-to-day research focusing on reaction design and utilize advances in organic synthesis to solve key challenges. Support discovery and development of synthetic routes to potential drug candidates; may engage in bio- and chemocatalysis screening and development, laboratory automation, flow chemistry, labeled compound synthesis, and data science/informatics. Participate in departmental and project team meetings to provide perspective on the drug discovery or development process. Gain skills through exposure to practical aspects and day-to-day problems of pharmaceutical research. Be responsible for and trained in accurate electronic notebook recording and safe laboratory practices; present research results in oral and written formats. Qualifications
Required Education & Experience: Currently enrolled sophomore, junior, or senior pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry; OR a currently enrolled graduate student pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry. Must have completed at least two years of studies toward a bachelor’s degree by June 2026. Available to work full-time for approximately 4-6 months beginning in early to mid-2026. Preferred Experience & Skills: Significant interest in organic chemistry or chemical biology; basic laboratory skills and preferably previous research experience including use of various experimental techniques and electronic notebook recording; GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additional Details
Location: Boston, MA; Rahway, NJ; West Point, PA; South San Francisco, CA. Application requirements: If selected for an interview, candidates should be prepared to submit letters of recommendation, a brief research statement, and transcripts. Salary range: $39,600.00 - $105,500.00 USD (subject to location and candidate factors). Employee status: Intern/Co-op (Fixed Term). No relocation, no visa sponsorship, no travel required. Shift: 1st - Day. Hazardous materials: Yes. Legal and Equal Opportunity
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, Merck provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other legally protected characteristics. For more information about personal rights under U.S. equal opportunity laws, visit the EEOC Know Your Rights and EEOC GINA Supplement pages. The company complies with applicable state laws regarding fair chance hiring where applicable. U.S. Hybrid Work Model details and location-specific considerations are provided where relevant.
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The Future Talent Program features co-ops that last up to 6 months and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Research & Development Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. The Discovery Chemistry and Process Research departments are seeking Co-ops with a passion for scientific research, strong academic performance, communication skills, and the ability to work on cross-functional teams. Co-ops will be integrated members of company project teams, working in state-of-the-art laboratories to solve fundamental synthetic or biological problems relevant to drug discovery and development. Responsibilities
Work in an organic synthesis laboratory to invent novel biologically active compounds and chemical reactions relevant to the synthesis of drug-like molecules (e.g., small molecules, cyclic peptides, and bioconjugates). Conduct day-to-day research focusing on reaction design and utilize advances in organic synthesis to solve key challenges. Support discovery and development of synthetic routes to potential drug candidates; may engage in bio- and chemocatalysis screening and development, laboratory automation, flow chemistry, labeled compound synthesis, and data science/informatics. Participate in departmental and project team meetings to provide perspective on the drug discovery or development process. Gain skills through exposure to practical aspects and day-to-day problems of pharmaceutical research. Be responsible for and trained in accurate electronic notebook recording and safe laboratory practices; present research results in oral and written formats. Qualifications
Required Education & Experience: Currently enrolled sophomore, junior, or senior pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry; OR a currently enrolled graduate student pursuing a Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemistry. Must have completed at least two years of studies toward a bachelor’s degree by June 2026. Available to work full-time for approximately 4-6 months beginning in early to mid-2026. Preferred Experience & Skills: Significant interest in organic chemistry or chemical biology; basic laboratory skills and preferably previous research experience including use of various experimental techniques and electronic notebook recording; GPA of 3.0 or higher. Additional Details
Location: Boston, MA; Rahway, NJ; West Point, PA; South San Francisco, CA. Application requirements: If selected for an interview, candidates should be prepared to submit letters of recommendation, a brief research statement, and transcripts. Salary range: $39,600.00 - $105,500.00 USD (subject to location and candidate factors). Employee status: Intern/Co-op (Fixed Term). No relocation, no visa sponsorship, no travel required. Shift: 1st - Day. Hazardous materials: Yes. Legal and Equal Opportunity
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, Merck provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other legally protected characteristics. For more information about personal rights under U.S. equal opportunity laws, visit the EEOC Know Your Rights and EEOC GINA Supplement pages. The company complies with applicable state laws regarding fair chance hiring where applicable. U.S. Hybrid Work Model details and location-specific considerations are provided where relevant.
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