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Senior Scientist, Vaccines Analytical R&D

Merck
5 hours ago
On-site
West Point, PA
Clinical Research and Development
Primary Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To
- Act as an expert in the laboratory, executing on method development and program deliverables.
- Coordinate with internal digital technology teams to translate automation designs into operational, user-ready solutions.
- Apply end-to-end automation knowledge, including robotic liquid handlers and scheduling software across Tecan, Hamilton, and HighRes Biosolutions.
- Use in-depth knowledge of immune-based antibody binding assays (ELISA), virology, and cell-based assays to support bioprocess development.
- Apply knowledge of assay development, Design of Experiments (DoE), and qualification/validation for regulated analytical or bioanalytical assays.
- Collaborate effectively in a fast-paced, integrated, multidisciplinary team environment.
- Demonstrate strong organizational, multi-tasking, and oral/written communication skills; provide scientific leadership; show a desire to conduct research and publish.

Education Minimum Requirements
- Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, analytical chemistry, chemistry, biochemistry, or related field (expected completion no later than May 2026); or
- M.S. with at least 3 years’ biotech/pharmaceutical industry experience; or
- B.S. with at least 7 years’ biotech/pharmaceutical industry experience.

Required Experience And Skills
- In-depth knowledge of liquid handlers, integrated robotic systems/software, and/or imaging methodology.
- Experience with molecular biology, virology, and biochemistry techniques related to biologics/vaccine bioprocess (e.g., ELISA, infectivity cell-based assays).
- Strong analytical capabilities; communication skills; ability to lead other scientists; peer-reviewed journal knowledge; presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and cross-functionally for assay development.
- Motivated to learn new skills, take on new challenges, and show scientific curiosity.
- Strong ability to deliver complex objectives under aggressive timelines.

Preferred
- Proficiency in computer programming languages (Visual Basic, C#, MATLAB, Python, and/or R).
- Experience with assay robustness evaluation; method qualifications, validations, transfers; familiarity with USP1220 and ICH Q2/Q14.
- Evidence of strong cross-functional collaboration in academic or industrial settings.

Required Skills
- Adaptability; Analytical Chemistry; Analytical Method Development; Assay/Assay Development; Bioanalytical Analysis; Biochemical Assays; Biomedical Engineering; Cell-Based Assays; Cell Physiology; Chromatographic Techniques; Computer Programming; Cross-Functional Collaboration; GMP Environments; Innovative Thinking; Molecular Biology; Multidisciplinary Collaboration; Multitasking; Programming Languages; Strategic Thinking; Technical Writing; Virology.

Application Instructions
- Apply through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub for current employees). Application deadline is stated on the posting.