Principal Scientist, Materials Science
Merck
June 25, 2026
On-site
Rahway, NJ
Other
Pharmaceutical Materials Scientist (MBC – Analytical Research & Development)
Responsibilities:
- Perform physicochemical characterization of pharmaceutical materials (API, chemical intermediates, peptides, novel excipients, drug-product intermediates, and drug products).
- Apply physical organic chemistry/materials science to address crystallization, polymorph/salt selection, drug–excipient compatibility, amorphous solid dispersion characterization, and physical stability.
- Lead and collaborate on cross-functional teams; build internal and external (academic/regulatory) networks.
- Support scientific excellence, compliance mindset, and partner/stakeholder collaboration.
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences (or related) + 12+ years relevant industrial experience (non-academic).
OR
- PhD in same fields + 8+ years relevant industrial experience (non-academic).
Required:
- Expertise in materials science/physical chemistry; experience with characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, electron microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, particle size analysis, powder property characterization).
- Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional teams; commitment to mentoring.
- Strong publication/presentation record; self-motivated problem-solver with strong written/verbal communication.
Preferred (any): API polymorph screening/crystallization; chemometric analysis of spectroscopic data; amorphous solid dispersion; modified release dosage forms; rheological characterization; late-stage development/regulatory documentation.
Skills (examples): Analytical/assay development, bioanalytical analysis, chromatographic techniques, liquid chromatography (LC), method validation, thermal analysis, crystallizations, dosage forms, cross-functional teamwork.
Benefits: Eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive (if applicable); comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement (401(k)), paid holidays/vacation, compassionate and sick days.
Application: Apply at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or Workday Jobs Hub). Deadline stated on posting; job posting end date 07/25/2026.
Responsibilities:
- Perform physicochemical characterization of pharmaceutical materials (API, chemical intermediates, peptides, novel excipients, drug-product intermediates, and drug products).
- Apply physical organic chemistry/materials science to address crystallization, polymorph/salt selection, drug–excipient compatibility, amorphous solid dispersion characterization, and physical stability.
- Lead and collaborate on cross-functional teams; build internal and external (academic/regulatory) networks.
- Support scientific excellence, compliance mindset, and partner/stakeholder collaboration.
Education:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences (or related) + 12+ years relevant industrial experience (non-academic).
OR
- PhD in same fields + 8+ years relevant industrial experience (non-academic).
Required:
- Expertise in materials science/physical chemistry; experience with characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, electron microscopy, vibrational spectroscopy, particle size analysis, powder property characterization).
- Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional teams; commitment to mentoring.
- Strong publication/presentation record; self-motivated problem-solver with strong written/verbal communication.
Preferred (any): API polymorph screening/crystallization; chemometric analysis of spectroscopic data; amorphous solid dispersion; modified release dosage forms; rheological characterization; late-stage development/regulatory documentation.
Skills (examples): Analytical/assay development, bioanalytical analysis, chromatographic techniques, liquid chromatography (LC), method validation, thermal analysis, crystallizations, dosage forms, cross-functional teamwork.
Benefits: Eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentive (if applicable); comprehensive medical/dental/vision, retirement (401(k)), paid holidays/vacation, compassionate and sick days.
Application: Apply at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or Workday Jobs Hub). Deadline stated on posting; job posting end date 07/25/2026.