Merck
Principal Scientist, Preclinical Development
Merck, South San Francisco, California, us, 94083
Principal Scientist, Preclinical Development
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Base pay range: $172,700.00/yr – $271,900.00/yr
The Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences (DPS) group based in South San Francisco, CA is seeking a Principal Scientist with experience in small molecule and peptide drug development. DPS is a multi‑disciplinary research group that supports drug delivery, solid‑state crystal form characterization, pre‑formulation and formulation, as well as developability assessments at the development‑and‑drug discovery interface. We characterize pre‑clinical drug candidates’ physicochemical properties, select candidates with optimal development characteristics, and design formulations for pharmacology, toxicology, and first‑in‑human (FIH) studies across diverse administration routes and modalities.
In this role you will focus on early formulation studies, developability assessment, and delivery approach for potential small molecule and peptide candidates. Key responsibilities include: • Compound profiling • Early formulation screening for stability and performance • Development of prototype and concept formulations/drug delivery systems that enhance therapeutic benefit. This work encompasses solubilization, permeation enhancement, and release modification. You will develop and apply physical and chemical methods such as XRD, TGA, DSC, DVS, HPLC, HP‑SEC, DLS, and microscopy.
We expect a strong record of solving deep technical challenges and a deep understanding of advancing programs from discovery to development. You will execute experiments independently, generate critical data sets, and communicate results to cross‑functional teams. Collaboration with Safety Assessment, Process Research, Medicinal Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics is essential.
Position Qualifications
Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Protein Engineering or a related field with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience
Required Experience and Skills
Extensive experience in small molecule solid oral dosage form development
Proficient in physical‑chemical characterization of small molecule and peptide candidates
Experience in drug delivery technologies to address solubility, permeability, and drug release challenges
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills; motivated to work in a cross‑functional team
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Preferred Experience and Skills
Pre‑clinical / clinical formulation development experience
Physicochemical characterization of small molecules and peptides
Experience with biologics development or drug delivery systems
Legal and Employment Information Our company is committed to inclusion and provides equal opportunities for all candidates. This position is open to US and Puerto Rico residents only.
We employ a U.S. hybrid work model effective September 5, 2023: employees work three days on‑site per week (Monday–Thursday) with Friday remote, unless business needs dictate otherwise.
Salary range: $172,700.00 – $271,900.00. Eligibility for annual bonus and long‑term incentive plans may apply. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, health care insurance, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate/sick days. For full benefits details, visit
our benefits page .
To apply, submit your application through
Merck Jobs . The application deadline is specified on the posting. The job posting is valid until 11:59:59 PM on 10/30/2025.
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we prohibit discrimination based on race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, and disability status. For more information, see the EEOC resources linked above.
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Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.
Base pay range: $172,700.00/yr – $271,900.00/yr
The Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences (DPS) group based in South San Francisco, CA is seeking a Principal Scientist with experience in small molecule and peptide drug development. DPS is a multi‑disciplinary research group that supports drug delivery, solid‑state crystal form characterization, pre‑formulation and formulation, as well as developability assessments at the development‑and‑drug discovery interface. We characterize pre‑clinical drug candidates’ physicochemical properties, select candidates with optimal development characteristics, and design formulations for pharmacology, toxicology, and first‑in‑human (FIH) studies across diverse administration routes and modalities.
In this role you will focus on early formulation studies, developability assessment, and delivery approach for potential small molecule and peptide candidates. Key responsibilities include: • Compound profiling • Early formulation screening for stability and performance • Development of prototype and concept formulations/drug delivery systems that enhance therapeutic benefit. This work encompasses solubilization, permeation enhancement, and release modification. You will develop and apply physical and chemical methods such as XRD, TGA, DSC, DVS, HPLC, HP‑SEC, DLS, and microscopy.
We expect a strong record of solving deep technical challenges and a deep understanding of advancing programs from discovery to development. You will execute experiments independently, generate critical data sets, and communicate results to cross‑functional teams. Collaboration with Safety Assessment, Process Research, Medicinal Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics is essential.
Position Qualifications
Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Protein Engineering or a related field with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience
Required Experience and Skills
Extensive experience in small molecule solid oral dosage form development
Proficient in physical‑chemical characterization of small molecule and peptide candidates
Experience in drug delivery technologies to address solubility, permeability, and drug release challenges
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills; motivated to work in a cross‑functional team
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Preferred Experience and Skills
Pre‑clinical / clinical formulation development experience
Physicochemical characterization of small molecules and peptides
Experience with biologics development or drug delivery systems
Legal and Employment Information Our company is committed to inclusion and provides equal opportunities for all candidates. This position is open to US and Puerto Rico residents only.
We employ a U.S. hybrid work model effective September 5, 2023: employees work three days on‑site per week (Monday–Thursday) with Friday remote, unless business needs dictate otherwise.
Salary range: $172,700.00 – $271,900.00. Eligibility for annual bonus and long‑term incentive plans may apply. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, health care insurance, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate/sick days. For full benefits details, visit
our benefits page .
To apply, submit your application through
Merck Jobs . The application deadline is specified on the posting. The job posting is valid until 11:59:59 PM on 10/30/2025.
As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we prohibit discrimination based on race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, and disability status. For more information, see the EEOC resources linked above.
#J-18808-Ljbffr