Assoc. Scientist, Engineering
Merck
Summary
We are seeking an eager and adaptable scientist to play a central role in pilot plant operations, supporting the scale-up and commercialization of our dynamic late-stage biologics pipeline within the Biologics S&T portfolio. As an Associate Scientist in Cell Culture Pilot Operations & Commercialization, you will be at the forefront of translating process development into manufacturing reality.
Job description
Role Summary
We are seeking an eager and adaptable scientist to play a central role in pilot plant operations, supporting the scale-up and commercialization of our dynamic late-stage biologics pipeline within the Biologics S&T portfolio. As an Associate Scientist in Cell Culture Pilot Operations & Commercialization, you will be at the forefront of translating process development into manufacturing reality.
You will gain hands-on experience operating pilot-scale bioreactors and supporting scale-up activities, while collaborating across functions to enable successful drug substance commercialization.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute and support pilot-scale mammalian cell culture runs, including bioreactor setup, operation, monitoring, sampling, and troubleshooting
- Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution of pilot activities
- Support scale-up of cell culture processes from lab to pilot and manufacturing scale
- Assist with process characterization studies, process validation (PPQ-enabling work), and regulatory filing support
- Partner with process development, manufacturing, quality, and regulatory teams to ensure seamless tech transfer and alignment
- Troubleshoot pilot equipment, bioreactor performance, and cell culture process deviations
- Maintain clear documentation and communicate results effectively to stakeholders
- Support initiatives to improve pilot efficiency, process robustness, and operational excellence
Education & Experience
Minimum High School Diploma/GED with 5 years of relevant experience or Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biological Engineering, or a related field with 0-2 years of relevant experience.
What You Bring
- Hands-on or academic experience in mammalian cell culture
- Aseptic technique
- Bioreactor operations (bench or pilot scale preferred)
- Media/buffer preparation
- Strong interest in pilot plant operations and scale-up activities
- Strong attention to detail and data integrity
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- A collaborative, ethical, and resilient mindset with a commitment to excellence
Requirements
- Minimum High School Diploma/GED with 5 years of relevant experience or Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Biological Engineering, or a related field with 0-2 years of relevant experience
- Hands-on or academic experience in mammalian cell culture
- Aseptic technique
- Bioreactor operations (bench or pilot scale preferred)
- Media/buffer preparation
- Strong interest in pilot plant operations and scale-up activities
- Strong attention to detail and data integrity
- Effective verbal and written communication skills
- Collaborative, ethical, and resilient mindset
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- 401(k) Matching
- Paid Holidays
- Vacation
- Compassionate & Sick Days
- Annual Bonus
- Long-Term Incentive
Company overview
Merck & Co., Inc., known as Merck in the United States and Canada and MSD (Merck Sharp & Dohme) internationally, is a premier American multinational pharmaceutical company headquartered in Rahway, New Jersey. Founded in 1891 as the U.S. subsidiary of the German Merck Group, the company became independent following World War I and has since grown into one of the world's largest biomedical companies, ranking fourth globally by revenue. Merck operates across three core business segments: pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and animal health products. The company is renowned for its groundbreaking research and development, having brought numerous life-saving medicines to market including Keytruda (pembrolizumab), a leading immunotherapy for cancer treatment that generated $29.5 billion in 2024 revenue, and Gardasil, a revolutionary HPV vaccine. With approximately 75,000 employees worldwide, Merck maintains a robust pipeline of innovative therapies focused on oncology, vaccines, hospital acute care, cardiology, neuroscience, virology, immunology, and diabetes. The company invests heavily in R&D, spending $17.9 billion in 2024 alone, demonstrating its commitment to advancing scientific discovery. Merck's legacy spans over 130 years of bringing hope to humanity through important medicines and vaccines, operating with a purpose to use leading-edge science to save and improve lives globally while fostering an inclusive workforce and responsible business practices.