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Director, Clinical Research, Obesity

Merck
August 25, 2026
Full-time
Remote friendly (Rahway, NJ)
Worldwide
Clinical Research and Development
Role: Principal Scientist/Director overseeing clinical research for obesity and related metabolic disorders within the Atherosclerosis & Metabolism therapeutic area. Primary objectives include managing late-stage clinical development of investigational and marketed drugs across all phases, from study design and initiation to regulatory reporting and publication. Responsibilities encompass clinical trial planning, ongoing trial oversight, analyzing clinical data to support safety and efficacy evaluations, and collaborating on research projects and business development assessments. The role involves cross-functional interaction with teams in regulatory affairs, manufacturing, and commercialization, and engagement with external investigators and research networks. The incumbent must maintain scientific expertise by tracking advancements and establishing investigator collaborations, with travel approximately 20-25%. Qualifications include an M.D. or M.D./Ph.D., at least 3 years of clinical medicine experience, 1+ year in drug development or biomedical research, with a proven record of scientific achievement. Preferred qualifications include Board Certification in endocrinology, gastroenterology, or related fields, and prior publication experience. Key skills involve clinical development, trial planning, cross-functional teamwork, and expertise in obesity and metabolic diseases. The position requires industry or academic experience, strong communication skills, and leadership in clinical research. Location is flexible with a travel requirement up to 25%. The role reports to senior management and involves active participation in scientific and clinical development activities for metabolic therapeutics.