Senior Scientist, Biology-Discovery

Job Description
We're seeking an innovative, highly motivated, and experienced Senior Scientist to join the Infectious Disease and Vaccines department at our research site in West Point, PA.
The candidate will be responsible for conceiving, designing, and implementing experiments to advance the development of mRNA based vaccines and therapeutics in the areas of Infectious Disease. This will require collaboration with cross-functional teams including colleagues in Systems Biology, Discovery Chemistry, Bioprocess and Information Technology, The candidate should have a strong background in RNA Biology (e.g., structure, function, immunology), and cutting-edge methodologies related to vaccine design. The candidate will be expected to independently design, execute, and analyze experiments and should have a strong background in immunological techniques.
The candidate must demonstrate well-developed skills for effective communication of scientific information and should have a strong history of publication in peer-reviewed journals. We value creative-thinking, teamwork, and independent analytical problem solving. If you are a highly motivated team player with a strong desire to impact basic research and translational medicine, we invite you to consider joining our team.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- mRNA design, production and evaluation in vitro and in vivo
- Data interpretation and presentation, manuscript/patent preparation
EDUCATION REQUIREMENT:
- PhD with >1 year postdoctoral experience
REQUIRED SKILLS:
- Competency in multiple aspects of RNA biology and nucleic acid sequence analysis (e.g., structure, stability, function, expression, immunogenicity, regulation and engineering).
- Proven track record in molecular techniques, including molecular cloning, cell culture, protein expression, purification and characterization
- Proficient in biochemical and immunological assays (ELISA, SPR, WB, FACS, etc.)
- Independent experimental design and execution, analytical problem-solving capabilities
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, and demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively in a matrix team environment
- Demonstrated record of publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals
- Approximately 10% Travel.
PREFERRED SKILLS:
- Knowledgeable of drug/vaccine discovery and experience in translational research
- Experience in virology, bacteriology and animal models is desirable
- Awareness of machine learning approaches (deep learning, neural networks, tree-based algorithms, and support vector machines) with application to predicting features and behavior of mRNA molecules.
- Exposure to concepts in Information Technology (e.g., knowledge management, ML operations, data capture, databases, and biopolymer registration).
We are a research-driven biopharmaceutical company. Our mission is built on the simple premise that if we "follow the science" that great medicines can make a significant impact to our world. We believe that a research-driven enterprise dedicated to world-class science can succeed by inventing medicine and vaccine innovations that make a difference for patients across the globe.
Who we are ...
We are known as Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA in the United States and Canada and MSD everywhere else. For more than a century, we have been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world's most challenging diseases. Today, our company continues to be at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions and advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and animals around the world.
What we look for ...
Imagine getting up in the morning for a job as important as helping to save and improve lives around the world. Here, you have that opportunity. You can put your empathy, creativity, digital mastery, or scientific genius to work in collaboration with a diverse group of colleagues who pursue and bring hope to countless people who are battling some of the most challenging diseases of our time. Our team is constantly evolving, so if you are among the intellectually curious, join us-and start making your impact today.
NOTICE FOR INTERNAL APPLICANTS
In accordance with Managers' Policy - Job Posting and Employee Placement, all employees subject to this policy are required to have a minimum of twelve (12) months of service in current position prior to applying for open positions.
If you have been offered a separation benefits package, but have not yet reached your separation date and are offered a position within the salary and geographical parameters as set forth in the Summary Plan Description (SPD) of your separation package, then you are no longer eligible for your separation benefits package. To discuss in more detail, please contact your HRBP or Talent Acquisition Advisor.
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We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing diverse, talented, and committed people together. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when diverse ideas come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another's thinking and approach problems collectively. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.
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Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., Kenilworth, 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:
10%
Flexible Work Arrangements:
Shift:
Valid Driving License:
Hazardous Material(s):
Number of Openings:
1
Requisition ID: R131926