Sr. Scientist, Biology-Discovery Full-time

Senior Scientist

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist to join our Infectious Diseases and Vaccines discovery team. This laboratory-facing role focuses on advancing our therapeutic pipeline for chronic viral diseases. The successful candidate will leverage deep technical expertise in virology to lead assay development and platform innovation. The primary focus of this role is discovery and translational research targeting hepatitis B virus (HBV) and related DNA viruses. We value creative thinking, goal-oriented teamwork and the application of generative AI models to define and enable problem-solving.

Core Responsibilities

• Laboratory Research: Conduct hands-on bench research utilizing advanced virology and molecular biology techniques.
• Assay Development: Design, optimize, and validate robust in vitro and ex vivo viral replication and infection assays.
• Platform Innovation: Develop innovative technological platforms to evaluate novel therapeutic candidates and mechanisms of action.
• Project Leadership: Serve as the scientific lead on cross-functional project teams, driving experimental strategies and timelines.
• Data Analysis: Analyze complex datasets, interpret results, and present actionable findings to senior leadership.

Education and Experience

• PhD in Virology, Immunology, or a closely related biomedical science discipline (preferred).
• Experience: Minimum of 2–5 years of postdoctoral research or pharmaceutical/biotech industry experience preferred.
• Specialization: Extensive, documented research experience working directly with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or related pathogenic DNA viruses.
• MS degree in Biology or Biomedical Sciences with a minimum of 7 years of experience in industry and or academia working with DNA viruses, experience with HBV preferred.
• BA/BS degree in Biology or Biomedical Sciences with a minimum of 10 years of experience in industry and or academia working with DNA viruses, experience with HBV preferred.

Technical Skills & Qualifications

• Deep understanding of chronic viral disease pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions.
• Proficiency in core virology techniques, including viral culture, quantification, and neutralization assays.
• Expert command of molecular biology methods (e.g., qPCR, digital PCR, cloning, next-generation sequencing).
• Strong communication skills with a demonstrated ability to collaborate in a fast-paced matrix environment.

Required Skills: Assay Development, Biochemical Assays, Cell Culture Techniques, Detail-Oriented, Drug Target Identification, Hepatitis B, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Molecular Microbiology, Personal Initiative, Project Leadership, Viral Culture, Viral Replication, Virology

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit:

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The salary range for this role is $117,000.00 – $184,200.00

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.