2027 Future Talent Program – Chemical Biology Spatial Biology & Proteomics – Co-op
MSD
Summary
The Future Talent Program features co-ops that last up to 6 months and will include one or more projects. These opportunities in our Research & Development Division can provide you with great development and a chance to see if we are the right company for your long-term goals. Our company's Research Lab's Chemical Biology group within Discovery Chemistry is seeking a co-op with a passion for scientific research, strong academic performance, communication skills, and the ability to work on cross-functional teams.
Job description
Our Company's Chemical Biology (comprising of chemistry, proteomics, and cell pharmacology) focuses on providing novel, high-quality targets and expanding confidence on molecular mechanism of action for our key assets. The candidate will gain practical experience with day-to-day challenges in pharmaceutical research and learn about spatial biology and proteomics and how such efforts play a role in drug discovery. The Co-op will participate in departmental and project team meetings to provide a broad perspective on the drug discovery or development process in the pharmaceutical industry.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue processing and sectioning
- Execute high-resolution, multiplexed immunofluorescence (IF) or immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining on FFPE sections
- Operate advanced laser microdissection systems to physically isolate selected cells or sub-cellular regions from the tissue slides
- Leverage ultra-sensitive mass spectrometry-based proteomics for tissue profiling
- Collaborate with team members to troubleshoot and optimize workflows
- Participate in lab meetings and present findings
Please note when applying for this position, the candidate must have consent from PI. If the candidate is selected for an interview, the applicant must be prepared to submit letters of recommendation and a brief research statement and a copy of transcripts.
Required Education & Experience
- Candidates must be currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology or related field
- Candidates must have completed at least two years of studies toward a PhD or equivalent degree
- Candidates must have strong knowledge and experience in FFPE tissue sectioning and mounting on slides
- Candidate must have basic knowledge and experience in fluorescence imaging and analysis
- Candidates must be available to work full-time for approximately 6 months beginning in early to mid-2027
Preferred Experience & Skills
- Proficiency in machine learning-based image analysis and in one or more programming languages (R, Python, etc.)
- Hands-on experience with laser capture microdissection
- Familiarity with sample preparation techniques for proteomics or other -omics analysis
- Strong publication record and/or presentations at scientific conferences
- Candidates should have a GPA of 3.0 or higher
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology or related field
- Completed at least two years of studies toward a PhD or equivalent degree
- Strong knowledge and experience in FFPE tissue sectioning and mounting on slides
- Basic knowledge and experience in fluorescence imaging and analysis
- Available to work full-time for approximately 6 months beginning in early to mid-2027
- Consent from PI
Company overview
MSD, known as Merck Sharp & Dohme outside the United States and Canada, is a global research-intensive biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey. Founded in 1891, the company has established itself as one of the world's leading pharmaceutical corporations with a rich history spanning over 130 years. MSD operates as the international division of Merck & Co., Inc., focusing on the discovery, development, manufacturing, and marketing of innovative medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and animal health products. The company's extensive portfolio includes groundbreaking treatments in oncology, infectious diseases, cardiology, diabetes, and vaccines, with notable products such as Keytruda (pembrolizumab) for cancer immunotherapy, Gardasil for HPV prevention, and Januvia for diabetes management. MSD maintains a strong commitment to research and development, investing significantly in scientific innovation to address unmet medical needs worldwide. With approximately 75,000 employees globally, the company operates through four main segments: pharmaceuticals, animal health, healthcare services, and strategic alliances. MSD's mission centers on using leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world, guided by the principle that medicine is for people, not profits.