Senior Scientist, Molecular Discovery Full-time NEW

Senior Scientist

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join the Protein Sciences department within Discovery Biologics in South San Francisco. This role will focus on design and execution of molecular interactions assays to advance biologics discovery, lead optimization of next-generation biologics modalities.

The successful candidate will primarily work at the bench and is expected to work both independently and collaboratively to plan and design experiments. These experiments will use SPR and related techniques to generate high-quality kinetic and affinity data that inform candidate selection, optimization, and development strategy across a diverse biologics pipeline. This position offers the opportunity to work at the interface of biophysics, protein engineering, and computational design, leveraging cutting-edge technologies to impact drug discovery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and interpret experiments to characterize molecular interactions using SPR (Biacore) and related biosensor platforms
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot assays across multiple binding formats (e.g., antibody-antigen, multivalent, complex systems)
• Partner with computational and protein engineering teams to produce high-quality datasets supporting AI/ML-driven design workflows
• Contribute data to candidate evaluation, selection, and optimization decisions, as well as our structured data capture product
• Explore and implement new technologies and methods to enhance assay throughput, robustness, and data quality
• Communicate findings clearly through technical reports and presentations to project teams, departmental forums, and leadership
• Mentor junior scientists or research associates as needed and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment

Why Join Us:

• Work at the cutting edge of biologics discovery, integrating biophysics, protein engineering, and machine learning
• Contribute directly to decision-making across a diverse and innovative therapeutic pipeline
• Collaborate with experts across discovery biology, computational science, and translational research
• Access state-of-the-art instrumentation and emerging technologies

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor's (with 7+ years), Master's (4+ years) or Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, structural biology or related discipline with relevant experience described below

Required Experience and Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in SPR/BLI and/or other biosensor technologies for analyzing molecular interactions
• Strong hands-on experience in experimental design, assay development, and troubleshooting for biophysical binding assays
• Experience characterizing proteins and/or antibodies in the context of drug discovery or protein engineering
• Solid understanding of protein structure, protein-ligand interactions, and biophysical principles
• Ability to analyze complex datasets and draw clear, actionable conclusions
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet timelines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong collaboration and communication skills across multidisciplinary teams
• Champion for diverse and inclusive culture

Preferred Experience and Skills:

• Experience with high-throughput or automated assay platforms and generation of structured datasets for downstream computational analysis
• Familiarity with AI/ML-enabled protein engineering workflows and data generation strategies
• Experience with complementary techniques such as FACS, Kinexa, ITC, ELISA, and Meso Scale Discovery
• Experience with cell-based binding or functional assays
• Proficiency with data analysis tools, databases, and electronic lab notebooks
• Discovery project team membership and meaningful contribution to project advancements

Required Skills:

Antibodies, Arts Development, Assay Development, Biacore, Biochemistry, Biophysical Techniques, Biosensors, Enzyme Kinetics, Ligand Binding, Molecular Biology Techniques, Protein Analysis, Protein Binding, Protein Characterization, Protein Interactions, Protein Structure

Preferred Skills:

The salary range for this role is $131,400.00 – $206,800.00

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.