Scientist, Biology-Discovery Full-time NEW

Job Title

The successful candidate will join the protein expression and purification team in the department of Infectious Diseases and Vaccines (IDVAX). The protein expression and purification team provides protein vaccine candidates and critical assay reagents for IDVAX programs in support of target validation and identification in the early discovery space. The primary focus for this position will be small-scale (30 ml culture) screening of reagent and vaccine antigens and large-scale (5 L culture) purification of recombinant proteins and nanoparticles. The candidate will work closely with the protein expression group, collaborate with the protein characterization group, as well as IDVAX program teams.

Required Skills

Proficiency in automated, tip-based chromatography systems and research-scale FPLC protein purification chromatography. Demonstrated knowledge in affinity, charge-based, and size exclusion separation techniques. The ability to closely follow SOPs is necessary. Knowledge in developing purification strategies for novel proteins. Proficiency in different protein characterization techniques and protein-based assays such as, Bradford protein quantitation, UV-VIS spectroscopy, SDS-PAGE, Western blotting. Tasks include the preparation of buffers, maintenance of purification instruments, sanitization of chromatographic columns, detailed notebook keeping, preparations of reports and inventory maintenance. Familiarity with Microsoft office applications, effective communication skills, the ability to work independently and in collaboration with others, and attention to details are a must. Interest in related scientific fields and drug discovery.

Preferred Skills

The following skills are considered a plus but are not required.

Knowledge of endotoxin measurements, protein analytical methods such as fluorimetry, infrared spectroscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy, light scattering, ultracentrifugation, or gradient purification. Experience in recombinant protein expression in either bacterial, insect or mammalian cell lines. Basic knowledge in sterile techniques. Basic knowledge of RNA biochemistry.

Required Education Requirements:

BS (with 2 or more years of post-graduation work experience) or MS (with 1 year or more years of graduate or post-graduation laboratory experience) in biology, chemistry, or another scientific field. Work experience can be in either academic or industry setting.

The salary range for this role is

$87,300.00 – $137,400.00

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.