Senior Scientist, DDT –Lab Automation, Automation Systems Engineer (Lab & Robotics)

In the Development Sciences and Clinical Supply (DSCS) organization, we believe digital is the force multiplier that enables faster experiments, smarter decisions, more robust supply chains, and is ultimately redefining how we bring medicines to patients.

Within DSCS, the DSCS Digital Technologies (DDT) team is building the next generation of data-rich, connected lab environments—where hardware, software, and AI-driven tools work together to accelerate pharmaceutical development. Our goal is simple but ambitious: embed advanced digital capabilities into the DNA of how we work. We believe this future starts with an effective foundation of laboratory tools: innovative robotics, process analytical technology (PAT), high-throughput technologies, reliable instrumentation, and integrated systems that seamlessly transition data from the physical labs to the digital world. We believe innovation is fueled by diverse teams that come together to build technologies that truly impact how our scientists conduct research. We’re looking for a Senior Scientist to help make this vision real.

In this role, you won’t just support experiments—you’ll transform how they happen. You’ll design and deploy cutting-edge automation solutions that enable scientists to move faster, generate higher-quality data, and focus on what matters most: discovery and innovation. You’ll work to augment the capabilities of our current laboratory systems, creating custom solutions that unlock new potential for our scientists. You’ll collaborate with a diverse network of scientists, engineers, and digital experts to build integrated systems that connect instruments, robotics, and data—turning complex workflows into seamless, intelligent processes. If you’re excited by the idea of combining science, engineering, and digital innovation— If you are a maker, a builder, a tinkerer —this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact and transform pharmaceutical research!

• Design the lab of the future by developing automation systems that integrate robotics, instrumentation, and software into cohesive, high-performing solutions
• Translate science into systems by partnering with researchers to understand experimental needs and convert them into scalable automated workflows
• Work at the intersection of disciplines, collaborating with experts in automation, data science, modeling, IT, and digital engineering
• Lead high-impact projects from concept through deployment, working across teams and stakeholders to deliver meaningful outcomes
• Continuously improve existing automation platforms to enhance performance, usability, and reliability
• Connect the ecosystem by integrating robotic platforms with laboratory equipment and data systems to enable end-to-end digital workflows
• Empower others by providing hands-on support, troubleshooting, and training to scientists using these systems

Education Minimum Requirement:

• A Ph.D. in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field (Expected graduation in 2026)
• A M.S. in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field with at least 2 years of relevant experience
• A B.S. in in Engineering (i.e. Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical), Robotics, Mechatronics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related field with at least 4 years of relevant experience

Required Experience and Skills:

• Experience in a lab-based setting, working with lab automation and equipment integration
• Experience with scripting/programming following accepted best practices (version control, design patterns, clean code)
• Understanding of (bio)pharmaceutical process research and development, drug product development, and/ or analytical development
• Demonstrated ability to work in an entrepreneurial and independent manner on cross-functional teams
• Efficient scientific collaboration and communication skills with the ability to navigate conversations with technicians and vendors

Preferred Experience and Skills:

• Experience with scripting/programming in one or more of the following: Python, C#, VBA, JavaScript, R
• Experience with automation edge devices and controllers (PLC, microcontrollers, etc)
• Experience with industrial SCADA or orchestration software (DeltaV, Ignition, WinCC OA, etc)
• Experience with benchtop automated reactor systems such as Sartorius Ambr250
• Experience with laboratory automation software, firmware, hardware, and their integration into end-to-end solutions
• Experience in integrating laboratory instruments with custom or commercial software solutions
• Ability to recognize, design, prototype, and deploy innovative technologies in laboratory automation
• Understanding of data science and AI/ML concepts and their application to laboratory automation
• Wet lab experience in (bio)pharmaceutical drug substance, drug product, and analytical research and development
• Experience with commercial laboratory notebook software like Benchling or Signals
• Motivated to learn new skills, willingness to take on new challenges, and scientific curiosity
• Deep interest and desire to understand how systems work. Self-proclaimed maker, builder, tinkerer

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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.