Biologics Process Research & Development , Senior Scientist at Merck & Co. Rahway, NJ

Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) within our Company's Research Laboratories is on a mission to rapidly deliver biotherapeutics to patients by efficiently developing innovative, robust manufacturing processes and technologies. To achieve this, we work closely with colleagues in Discovery, Pre-clinical, Early Development, Analytical, Formulation, and Commercial Manufacturing while providing an inclusive environment for all. Beyond process development for pipeline biologics, we innovate and build next-generation biomanufacturing technologies. Examples include investments for development of continuous manufacturing, green and sustainable processes, and proprietary technology platforms. We actively publish and engage with the scientific community to influence the field. Biologics Process Research & Development (BPR&D) includes three lab-facing technical functional areas: Process Cell Sciences (PCS), Upstream and Downstream Process Development & Engineering. The latter two together form our Biologics' Process Development (BPD) group. This job posting covers opportunities for the BPD group. We are actively looking for highly motivated people with a passion for innovation and interest in contributing to upstream and/or downstream bioprocessing.ResponsibilitiesInnovationDevelop innovative and disruptive technologies for next-generation biologic manufacturing processesApply rigorous scientific principles and data analyses to solve challenging problems related to developing robust, cost-effective processesExperimental Design and Problem-SolvingDevelop and characterize robust processes for delivering multi-kilogram quantities of life-changing medicinesDesign and conduct lab and/or pilot-scale studies to support mechanistic understanding, scale-up, and transfer of processes to manufacturingCollaboration and effective communicationWork with a collaborative, cross-functional team of talented scientists and engineers to advance the biologics pipeline from early- to late-stage developmentPartner with groups in both research and manufacturing divisionsRepresent your functional area in cross-functional teamsCoaching and MentoringTrain and mentor junior scientists in experimental design, execution, and data interpretationSafety and ComplianceContribute to a safe and compliant laboratory work environmentMinimum Education RequirementsBachelor's Degree with 4 years, or Master's Degree with 3 years or PhD with 0+ years of relevant experience (or expected PhD graduation within 6 months from date of application) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology, or related fieldsRequired Experience and SkillsA proven ability to design and execute hands-on lab and/or in silico experimentsProficiency with statistical design and analysis toolsExcellent communication skills, ability to work in matrixed teams and collaborate with partners cross-functionallyA demonstrated ability to think critically with excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skillsUpstreamKnowledge of recombinant protein expression, metabolic pathways, biochemistry, and cell cultureUnderstanding of basic bioreactor principles, mass transfer kineticsUnderstanding of cell & molecular biologyDownstreamSound scientific knowledge of protein properties and purificationUnderstanding of unit operations such as chromatography, filtration, crystallization, precipitation, adsorption, mixing, etc.Preferred Experience and SkillsHistory of external presentations and/or publications in peer-reviewed journalsData science, modeling, machine learning, and artificial intelligence; proficiency with programming languagesEvaluating and introducing novel technologies and analytical tools in process development and manufacturingKnowledge of protein biochemistry, biophysics, conjugation techniquesVector construction, Genetic Engineering, and Systems BiologyKnowledge of cell-line development for protein expression in mammalian systems and suspension cell cultureHands-on experience with RNA and whole-genome (re)sequencing, and bioinformatics analysisHigh throughput experimentation using automation platformsFamiliarity with feed and media development for large-scale recombinant protein expression in mammalian systemsKnowledge of Quality by Design, Process Characterization and Control Strategy developmentUS 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. 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.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".Salary range: $117,000.00 - $184,200.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. 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.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.Requisition ID: R396511J-18808-Ljbffr