Senior Scientist, Biology-Discovery, Neuroscience Biomarkers, Mass Spectrometry

Our Research & Development Division Discovery Neuroscience is seeking a highly motivated bioanalytical scientist at the level of Senior Scientist to support biomarker discovery and validation across our neuroscience portfolio.

In this position, you will be responsible for developing and applying mass spectrometry-based assays for use in preclinical drug development, with a focus on novel target and translational biomarker discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. Appointees will work within multidisciplinary drug discovery teams and apply their expertise in mass spectrometry applications to explore the mechanisms driving neurodegenerative diseases, identify biomarkers for clinical translation and ultimately advance new therapeutics. Applicants should have expertise in unbiased “omics” such as metabolomics, lipidomics or proteomics with hands-on experience spanning study design, data acquisition and bioinformatic analyses along with a proven track record in advancing targeted quantitative biomarker assays in follow-on validation studies.

PhD with at least four years of postdoctoral or equivalent industry experience. Analytical Chemistry degree required or equivalent. Neuroscience degree preferred.

• Proven experience developing and applying mass spectrometry-based approaches using preclinical models and human biospecimens to support biomarker discovery, translational research, and novel target identification.
• Hands-on experience performing unbiased, quantitative discovery analyses with high resolution LC-MS instrumentation (i.e. DDA, DIA proteomics)
• Development and qualification of LC-MS/MS-based quantitative assays
• Proficiency in data processing and bioinformatic and statistical workflows (i.e. proficiency with MetaboAnalyst, Skyline, MaxQuant, Proteome Discoverer, Spectronaut, or similar)
• Experience with automated workflows for sample processing and prefractionation
• Experience working collaboratively with disease area biology experts
• Self-motivated and resourceful with a demonstrated ability to generate robust and reproducible data in a timely manner
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills and keen ability to engage internal and external team members in collaborative research.

• Drug discovery experience in a biotech, pharmaceutical or academic setting
• Background in neuroscience therapy areas such as neurodegenerative diseases or pain disorders.
• Experience of working with external academic, biotechnology, and contract research organizations

• Collaborate with colleagues to plan experimental studies supporting novel drug target validation or biomarker identification.
• Develops assays for identification and measurement of pharmacodynamic biomarkers from preclinical models with a line of sight towards clinical translation.
• Impacts programs through critical thinking and timely data-driven decision making.
• In collaboration with colleagues from translational medicine, discovery biology and data sciences, develops and executes on MS strategies to identify and validate fluid biomarkers for patient stratification.
• Collaborates with MS experts across our Research & Development Division to assess and implement new bioanalytical technology.
• Acts as a technical expert, trains and supporting colleagues within area of expertise.
• Co-ordinates assay transfer to internal groups and external contract research organizations.
• Participates in external research collaborations with academic groups and disease consortia.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder management skills

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The salary range for this role is

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, government requirements, and business or organizational needs.

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. More information about benefits is available at https://jobs.merck.com/us/en/compensation-and-benefits.

You can apply for this role through https://jobs.merck.com/us/en (or via the Workday Jobs Hub if you are a current employee). The application deadline for this position is stated on this posting.