Molecular Cell Biologist, Quantitative Biosciences

Our Research Scientists are our Inventors. We discover and target steps in disease mechanisms or pathways with the goal to identify agents that are effective in treating or preventing human disease. Using innovative thinking, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust scientific methodology we collaborate to discover the next medical breakthrough.

**Key responsibilities**:

- Utilize your expertise in molecular biology to develop and implement state-of-the-art approaches using gene-editing tools to support the validation of therapeutic hypotheses and to execute in vitro pharmacology strategies for target-based and phenotypic projects.
- Actively take part in the design, development, and execution of in vitro assays with disease-relevant phenotypes and determine feasibility and best approach for gene editing or genetic screens.
- Utilize your background and experience in cell biology to perform tissue culture with established cell lines and primary cultures, including organotypic cultures.
- Develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and validate protocols for new assays, enabling their integration into standard workflows.
- Working as part of an interdisciplinary team to support research strategies and project goals, critically analyzing data, and contributing ideas that will drive the project forward.

**Qualification**:

- PhD in molecular or cell biology, pharmacology or equivalent experience with 2-3 years of postdoctoral experience, or an M.S. degree with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience; or a B.Sc./B.A. degree with a minimum 10 years of relevant experience.
- Highly skilled in the design, development, and execution of quantitative high-complexity cell assays, using a wide range of modern technologies and detection methods.
- Broad expertise in bioassay development and implementation to evaluate compound affinity and potency and assess the molecular mechanisms of action of key compounds.
- Strong track record in assay development, optimization and troubleshooting as well as pharmacological data analysis.
- Strong hands-on skills in molecular biology methods including DNA construct design and cloning, endogenous tagging, gDNA isolation, PCR, qPCR, ddPCR.
- Highly skilled in the use of molecular techniques for gene targeting/editing and cell line generation, such as RNAi, viral transduction, CRISPR, and exogenous gene expression assays. Working knowledge of pooled CRISPR-based screening approaches and the assays required to qualify edits (both on and off-target) is strongly preferred.
- Demonstrable experience with 2D and 3D (spheroid models, organoid, co-culture systems, and technologies, etc.) assays to measure cell proliferation and death, migration, and/or invasion.
- Strong hands-on expertise in FACS cell sorter (e.g. BD FACSymphony) and/or confocal imaging/phenotypic assay is highly desirable.
- A good understanding of proteomics and metabolomics would be desirable.
- Experience with Python or R computational packages and a strong interest in learning single-cell analysis would be an advantage.
- Solid experimental design, troubleshooting, and data analysis skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are required along with a solutions-based approach, flexibility, and the ability to focus and deliver on time-sensitive objectives.
- The ability and desire to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
- Comfortable working in a matrix environment and handling several concurrent fast-paced projects.
- A proven track record of high productivity and scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.

We are a research-driven biopharmaceutical company. Our mission is built on the simple premise that if we “follow the science” and that great medicines can make a significant impact to our world. And we believe that a research-driven enterprise dedicated to world-class science can succeed by inventing medicine and vaccine innovations that make a difference for patients across the globe.

**Who we are**

We are known as Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA in the United States and Canada and MSD everywhere else. For more than a century, we have been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world's most challenging diseases. Today, our company continues to be at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions and advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and animals around the world.

**What we look for**

In a world of rapid innovation, we seek brave Inventors who want to make an Impact in all aspects of our business, enabling breakthroughs that will affect generations to come. We encourage you to bring your disruptive thinking, collaborative spirit and diverse perspective to our organization.

We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing diverse, talented, and committed people together. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when diverse ide