Principal Scientist, Preclinical Development

Principal Scientist, Preclinical Development at Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. /Netherlands

Full Time

Start Date:

Immediate

Remote:
Yes

Visa Sponsor:
Yes

Salary Range: $ - $

The Discovery Pharmaceutical Sciences (DPS) group based in South San Francisco, CA seeks a Principal Scientist with small molecule and peptide experience. The role focuses on the characterization, early formulation studies, and develop ability assessment of potential small molecule and peptide drug candidates, supporting the transition from discovery to development.

• Characterize physicochemical properties of pre‑clinical drug candidates.
• Perform early formulation screening for stability and performance.
• Develop prototype and concept formulations/drug delivery approaches for small molecule and peptide candidates.
• Employ analytical techniques such as XRD, TGA, DSC, DVS, HPLC, HP‑SEC, DLS, microscopy, etc.
• Generate key data sets and communicate findings to cross‑functional teams.
• Contribute to departmental scientific initiatives as an individual contributor or small team leader.
• Collaborate closely with Safety Assessment, Process Research, Medicinal Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, and Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics teams to support clinical candidate selection.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Protein Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in industrial small molecule and peptide development.
• Extensive experience in small molecule solid oral dosage form and physical‑chemical characterization.
• Proficiency in drug delivery technologies to address solubility, permeability, and release challenges.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with motivation to work in a cross‑functional environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience in pre‑clinical/clinical formulation development and physicochemical characterization (preferred).
• Additional experience in biologics development or drug delivery (preferred).

• Eligible for ERP.
• Salary range: $ - $.
• Eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, retirement benefits, paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.
• Hybrid work model applies for U.S. office‑based positions; remote work is available.

EEO Statement: We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, providing equal opportunities for all employees and applicants and prohibiting 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 affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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