Merck
Join to apply for the
Executive Director, Molecular Discovery
role at
Merck Join to apply for the
Executive Director, Molecular Discovery
role at
Merck Executive Director, San Diego Discovery Biologics
Our company is seeking an exceptional and experienced scientist to lead the Discovery Biologics group at our research division in San Diego. The Executive Director of Discovery Biologics role carries responsibilities for progressing a locally led portfolio of biotherapeutic molecules in immunological diseases through discovery and into the clinic in collaboration with cross-functional research division scientists locally and across the network. Additionally, the individual will manage a local team driving protein engineering, production, and characterization and work collaboratively across the Discovery Biologics network to invent new biotherapeutic medicines. The position reports into the VP Head of Discovery Biologics and is a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team responsible for the global biotherapeutics discovery strategy, tactics, and cross-network talent development. The role is a key interface with other drug discovery and development scientists and functions within our company as well as with external academic and industrial partners. Job Description
Executive Director, San Diego Discovery Biologics
Our company is seeking an exceptional and experienced scientist to lead the Discovery Biologics group at our research division in San Diego. The Executive Director of Discovery Biologics role carries responsibilities for progressing a locally led portfolio of biotherapeutic molecules in immunological diseases through discovery and into the clinic in collaboration with cross-functional research division scientists locally and across the network. Additionally, the individual will manage a local team driving protein engineering, production, and characterization and work collaboratively across the Discovery Biologics network to invent new biotherapeutic medicines. The position reports into the VP Head of Discovery Biologics and is a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team responsible for the global biotherapeutics discovery strategy, tactics, and cross-network talent development. The role is a key interface with other drug discovery and development scientists and functions within our company as well as with external academic and industrial partners.
We recognize that the diversity in our team is our strength and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Successful candidates must demonstrate inclusive behaviors in working with a diverse group of scientists to drive our core mission.
Required Experience
PhD or equivalent and minimum 15 years of industry experience including significant leadership and managerial roles advancing protein therapeutics through discovery and early development.
Required Skills
Clear evidence of advancing a biotherapeutic pipeline and driving platform innovations Deep end-to-end knowledge of biotherapeutic discovery and development Line management experience of groups of 5+ Demonstrated passion for team building and a track record of talent development Champion for diverse and inclusive culture Outstanding communication and collaboration skills and demonstrated ability to operate technically, tactically, and strategically with an enterprise mindset. Someone who works effectively in a matrix organization and builds trust and credibility at all levels and with the ability to identify and capitalize on synergies across organizational or functional interfaces Has established a strong external reputation and network
Key Responsibilities
Sets the vision and strategy for the San Diego Protein Sciences group to drive performance and deliver impact on projects and for platform capabilities that accelerate our ability to invent biologics medicines. Responsible for managing priorities, resources, and investments aligned with the greater Discovery Biologics strategy Augment capacity and capabilities advancement through effective outsourcing and external partnerships Actively develops talent, strategically maximizes diversity to complement and strengthen their team Fosters a high-performance culture of collaboration, engagement, self-accountability and inclusion As a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team, meaningfully contribute to the development and execution of departmental strategy and to the growth and development of all DB staff. Effectively partners with leadership across Discovery Biologics and our other research division functions to achieve organizational objectives. Participates on multiple network governance committees and workstreams to ensure alignment and Stays abreast of external advancements in the relevant scientific fields Promotes the external reputation of our Company's Discovery Biologics
Preferred Experience And Skills
Deep and broad understanding of biologics discovery workflows and processes including expert-level knowledge of one or more of: Antibody and antibody-like molecule discovery workflows, protein display technologies, protein engineering, protein expression systems, protein purification, protein characterization/biophysics, cell-therapy technologies Strong understanding of immunologic pathways, diseases, and therapies Track record of developing and implementing strategies to increase capacity and quality of molecules in a resource-effective manner, including outsourcing and automation. Track record in advancing platform capabilities that create new opportunities for molecular invention Strong partnering skills and ability to identify and capitalize on synergies across organizational or functional interfaces Experience in effective management of external resources and collaborations Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others and drive performance and behavioral changes through influence Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to drive decisions at all levels; strategy, tactics, technical, and operational Track record of personal growth and expansion of domain knowledge
Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
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.
Requirements
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. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:
EEOC Know Your Rights
EEOC GINA Supplement
We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively.
Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts
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 salary range for this role is
$227,300.00 - $357,900.00
This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.
The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.
You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.
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
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
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.
Employee Status
Regular
Relocation:
Domestic/International
VISA Sponsorship
Yes
Travel Requirements
25%
Flexible Work Arrangements
Not Applicable
Shift
1st - Day
Valid Driving License
No
Hazardous Material(s)
n/a
Required Skills
Biologics, Biotherapeutics, Communication, Diversity and Inclusion (D&I), Drug Discovery Process, Influence, Innovation, People Leadership, Protein Characterization, Protein Engineering, Protein Production, Strategic
Preferred Skills
Job Posting End Date:
08/25/2025
A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.
Requisition ID: R360066 Seniority level
Seniority level Executive Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Business Development and Sales Industries Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Biotechnology Research, and Research Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Merck by 2x Sign in to set job alerts for “Executive Director” roles.
Vice President, People & Culture - Business Partners
Carlsbad, CA $275,000.00-$300,000.00 1 week ago Senior Vice President (SVP) of the Space Business Area
Vice President, Aerospace Systems Growth
Vice President/Senior Director, Strategy and Growth, CAES by Honeywell
Senior Vice President, HR Business Partner
Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing
VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Vice President Clinical Development - Respiratory
Vice President of Credit Risk & Analytics
Vice President, Ports/Maritime National Electrification and Decarbonization Business Leader
Vice President, Ports/Maritime National Electrification and Decarbonization Business Leader
San Diego Metropolitan Area $125,000.00-$175,000.00 2 days ago La Mesa, CA $250,000.00-$300,000.00 2 weeks ago Executive Director/Vice President, Clinical Operations
Executive Director, UC Health Milk Bank - 136075
Vice President, Strategic Growth & Business Development
Senior/Executive Director, Program Leadership and Regulatory Operations
La Mesa, CA $165,000.00-$180,000.00 2 weeks ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Executive Director, Molecular Discovery
role at
Merck Join to apply for the
Executive Director, Molecular Discovery
role at
Merck Executive Director, San Diego Discovery Biologics
Our company is seeking an exceptional and experienced scientist to lead the Discovery Biologics group at our research division in San Diego. The Executive Director of Discovery Biologics role carries responsibilities for progressing a locally led portfolio of biotherapeutic molecules in immunological diseases through discovery and into the clinic in collaboration with cross-functional research division scientists locally and across the network. Additionally, the individual will manage a local team driving protein engineering, production, and characterization and work collaboratively across the Discovery Biologics network to invent new biotherapeutic medicines. The position reports into the VP Head of Discovery Biologics and is a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team responsible for the global biotherapeutics discovery strategy, tactics, and cross-network talent development. The role is a key interface with other drug discovery and development scientists and functions within our company as well as with external academic and industrial partners. Job Description
Executive Director, San Diego Discovery Biologics
Our company is seeking an exceptional and experienced scientist to lead the Discovery Biologics group at our research division in San Diego. The Executive Director of Discovery Biologics role carries responsibilities for progressing a locally led portfolio of biotherapeutic molecules in immunological diseases through discovery and into the clinic in collaboration with cross-functional research division scientists locally and across the network. Additionally, the individual will manage a local team driving protein engineering, production, and characterization and work collaboratively across the Discovery Biologics network to invent new biotherapeutic medicines. The position reports into the VP Head of Discovery Biologics and is a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team responsible for the global biotherapeutics discovery strategy, tactics, and cross-network talent development. The role is a key interface with other drug discovery and development scientists and functions within our company as well as with external academic and industrial partners.
We recognize that the diversity in our team is our strength and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Successful candidates must demonstrate inclusive behaviors in working with a diverse group of scientists to drive our core mission.
Required Experience
PhD or equivalent and minimum 15 years of industry experience including significant leadership and managerial roles advancing protein therapeutics through discovery and early development.
Required Skills
Clear evidence of advancing a biotherapeutic pipeline and driving platform innovations Deep end-to-end knowledge of biotherapeutic discovery and development Line management experience of groups of 5+ Demonstrated passion for team building and a track record of talent development Champion for diverse and inclusive culture Outstanding communication and collaboration skills and demonstrated ability to operate technically, tactically, and strategically with an enterprise mindset. Someone who works effectively in a matrix organization and builds trust and credibility at all levels and with the ability to identify and capitalize on synergies across organizational or functional interfaces Has established a strong external reputation and network
Key Responsibilities
Sets the vision and strategy for the San Diego Protein Sciences group to drive performance and deliver impact on projects and for platform capabilities that accelerate our ability to invent biologics medicines. Responsible for managing priorities, resources, and investments aligned with the greater Discovery Biologics strategy Augment capacity and capabilities advancement through effective outsourcing and external partnerships Actively develops talent, strategically maximizes diversity to complement and strengthen their team Fosters a high-performance culture of collaboration, engagement, self-accountability and inclusion As a member of the Discovery Biologics Leadership Team, meaningfully contribute to the development and execution of departmental strategy and to the growth and development of all DB staff. Effectively partners with leadership across Discovery Biologics and our other research division functions to achieve organizational objectives. Participates on multiple network governance committees and workstreams to ensure alignment and Stays abreast of external advancements in the relevant scientific fields Promotes the external reputation of our Company's Discovery Biologics
Preferred Experience And Skills
Deep and broad understanding of biologics discovery workflows and processes including expert-level knowledge of one or more of: Antibody and antibody-like molecule discovery workflows, protein display technologies, protein engineering, protein expression systems, protein purification, protein characterization/biophysics, cell-therapy technologies Strong understanding of immunologic pathways, diseases, and therapies Track record of developing and implementing strategies to increase capacity and quality of molecules in a resource-effective manner, including outsourcing and automation. Track record in advancing platform capabilities that create new opportunities for molecular invention Strong partnering skills and ability to identify and capitalize on synergies across organizational or functional interfaces Experience in effective management of external resources and collaborations Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate others and drive performance and behavioral changes through influence Strong interpersonal and communication skills Ability to drive decisions at all levels; strategy, tactics, technical, and operational Track record of personal growth and expansion of domain knowledge
Current Employees apply HERE
Current Contingent Workers apply HERE
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.
Requirements
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. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:
EEOC Know Your Rights
EEOC GINA Supplement
We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together, talented, and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively.
Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts
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 salary range for this role is
$227,300.00 - $357,900.00
This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.
The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits (for employee and family), retirement benefits, including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.
You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.
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
Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
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.
Employee Status
Regular
Relocation:
Domestic/International
VISA Sponsorship
Yes
Travel Requirements
25%
Flexible Work Arrangements
Not Applicable
Shift
1st - Day
Valid Driving License
No
Hazardous Material(s)
n/a
Required Skills
Biologics, Biotherapeutics, Communication, Diversity and Inclusion (D&I), Drug Discovery Process, Influence, Innovation, People Leadership, Protein Characterization, Protein Engineering, Protein Production, Strategic
Preferred Skills
Job Posting End Date:
08/25/2025
A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.
Requisition ID: R360066 Seniority level
Seniority level Executive Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Business Development and Sales Industries Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Biotechnology Research, and Research Services Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Merck by 2x Sign in to set job alerts for “Executive Director” roles.
Vice President, People & Culture - Business Partners
Carlsbad, CA $275,000.00-$300,000.00 1 week ago Senior Vice President (SVP) of the Space Business Area
Vice President, Aerospace Systems Growth
Vice President/Senior Director, Strategy and Growth, CAES by Honeywell
Senior Vice President, HR Business Partner
Vice President of Commercial Sales & Marketing
VICE PRESIDENT FOR INSTITUTIONAL ADVANCEMENT
Vice President Clinical Development - Respiratory
Vice President of Credit Risk & Analytics
Vice President, Ports/Maritime National Electrification and Decarbonization Business Leader
Vice President, Ports/Maritime National Electrification and Decarbonization Business Leader
San Diego Metropolitan Area $125,000.00-$175,000.00 2 days ago La Mesa, CA $250,000.00-$300,000.00 2 weeks ago Executive Director/Vice President, Clinical Operations
Executive Director, UC Health Milk Bank - 136075
Vice President, Strategic Growth & Business Development
Senior/Executive Director, Program Leadership and Regulatory Operations
La Mesa, CA $165,000.00-$180,000.00 2 weeks ago We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr