Distinguished Scientist, Chemistry

Merck
Washington, US
Remote

Job Description

Job Description

Throughout the drug discovery lifecycle, sustained investment in innovative chemistry can inspire design and enable the synthesis of the best molecules. In this context, the Discovery Process Chemistry (DPC) group works in partnership with Discovery teams to advance programs into uncharted chemical space and subsequently transition lead compounds into development.

We are seeking a highly motivated senior level scientist to function as the scientific lead for Discovery Process Chemistry, spanning all chemistry sites in the network. The successful candidate will drive impact across the portfolio through scientific excellence and innovation as a strategic leader, team mentor and collaborator. This role will be part of the Discovery Process Chemistry leadership team and contribute to key scientific, strategic, and business decisions facing the function.

Key Responsibilities:

The Distinguished Scientist reports to the Executive Director, Head of Discovery Process Chemistry (DPC), Small Molecule Process Research & Development (SM PR&D) in our Research and Development (R&D) Division. The incumbent will effectively partner with key stakeholders to positively affect chemistry culture and tactics across the network to deliver key pipeline impacts. They identify, advocate, and in many cases lead strategic chemistry investments to impact the discovery portfolio.

The successful candidate will establish close connectivity with DPC teams, as well as crucial partners in discovery and development to bridge knowledge gaps and identify opportunities. A connection to our digital priorities will be crucial to enable adoption of new ways of working and influence future investments. They will work closely with teams to align the intent and desired output of DPC-led or partnered technical and governance reviews, and mentor project leaders and core team representatives to ensure a high bar for functional performance and program impact.

The incumbent will be expected to have cross-functional team leadership and act as a driver or contributor to strategic initiatives across functions. As a subject matter expert in drug discovery and development the individual will play a substantive role in technical and strategic governance as well as be active in due diligence for early-stage assets.

As a mentor, role model, and advisor to scientists within and across the function the incumbent will contribute to a culture of scientific and operational excellence. They will set the standard for DPC external influence and visibility as a brand-ambassador for the function, with the expectation to attract, establish, and contribute to strategic external partnerships that enhance chemistry capabilities.

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related biopharmaceutical science is required.

Required Skills and Experience:

  • 10+ years' experience in drug discovery and/or early drug development
  • Demonstrated ability in leading cross-functional groups
  • Track record and commitment to employee development/retention
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Subject matter expertise in Discovery Process Chemistry with experience on Early Development Teams
  • Strength in driving results on firm deadlines
  • Demonstrated ability in selection and prioritization of a portfolio of projects
  • Must be internationally recognized in the pharmaceutical development area with a strong track record of peer-reviewed publications and external research presentations

Location:

  • Can be based at any of the Rahway, NJ, West Point, PA, Boston, MA, or South San Francisco, CA sites.

Travel:

  • Travel across the chemistry network sites is expected, in addition to business related travel for conferences, meetings, and congresses. Approximately 10-20% time commitment.

Required Skills:

Bioanalytical Analysis, Bioanalytical Analysis, Biopharmaceuticals, Biopharmaceutics, Business, Collaborative Communications, Collaborative Leadership, Communication, Computational Chemistry, Cross-Functional Teamwork, Detail-Oriented, Dosage Forms, Drug Discovery Process, Ethical Compliance, Innovation, Inorganic Chemistry, Interpersonal Relationships, Investments, Mentoring Staff, Molecular Structure, Pharmaceutical Biology, Pharmaceutical Development, Prioritization, Process Chemistry, Professional Networking {+ 8 more}

Preferred Skills:

Cross-Functional Collaboration, Leading by Influence, Process Development (PD), Small Molecules

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

US 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

Skills & Requirements

Technical Skills

Drug discoveryChemistryPharmaceutical developmentProject managementTeam leadershipCommunicationCollaborationMentorshipPharmaceuticalsDrug development

Employment Type

FULL TIME

Level

senior

Posted

4/24/2026

Apply Now

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