Distinguished Scientist, Quantitative Biosciences​/Nonclinical Pharmacology

About the Role

We are looking for a Distinguished Scientist to lead Quantitative Biosciences research across drug discovery, nonclinical pharmacology, and broader R&D. The role reports to the Vice President and Global Head of Quantitative Biosciences and partners with discovery scientists in the global Discovery, Preclinical, & Translational Medicine organization.

• Serve as a scientific integrator, strategic partner, and chief-of-staff to the leadership, shaping enterprise pharmacology and translational strategy in alignment with Quantitative Biosciences and DPTM priorities.
• Drive clarity and alignment on pharmacology strategies that enable efficient SAR progression and translational confidence, ensuring approaches are fit-for-purpose and decision-focused.
• Apply deep expertise in biochemical, cellular, and translational systems to clarify mechanisms of action, inform molecule differentiation, and guide assay and model strategies that streamline research operating plans.
• Advise and mentor broadly across Quantitative Biosciences and DPTM, guiding scientists in assay design, mechanistic pharmacology, and translational science to accelerate programs and develop talent.
• Act as a trusted advisor on high-impact and complex programs, helping teams resolve key scientific uncertainties and translate data into actionable insights that inform strategic and program-level decisions.
• Shape the Quantitative Biosciences pharmacology portfolio and resourcing strategy, contributing to early target and end-to-end nonclinical pharmacology planning, and driving visibility through dashboards, resource planning, and stakeholder alignment.
• Assess and interpret the evolving external landscape, delivering actionable insights on competitive pipelines, emerging trends, and strategic opportunities.
• Partner closely with Business Development & Licensing as a scientific leader in pharmacology and quantitative biosciences, supporting asset evaluations, due diligence, and opportunity assessments across modalities and stages of R&D.
• Foster a culture of scientific rigor, critical thinking, and open dialogue, strengthening decision-making and elevating organizational capability.
• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing environment aligned with company values and mission.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in pharmacology, biology, or a related discipline; deep expertise in mechanistic pharmacology, drug discovery, and preclinical development across modalities.
• Advanced degree (Ph.D.) preferred.
• 15+ years of proven leadership in a biopharmaceutical setting, with extensive research experience and demonstrated impact on drug discovery and translational programs.
• Experience in cardiometabolic disease, obesity, oncology, and/or immunology strongly preferred, demonstrated through publications and scientific reputation.
• Deep expertise across pharmacology disciplines – biochemical/biophysical, cellular, in vivo pharmacology, PK/PD, IVIVC, and translational science.
• Ability to simplify complex scientific challenges into clear, actionable strategies and influence cross-functional teams without formal authority.
• Strong executive communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with experience partnering with senior leaders and external collaborators.
• Demonstrated experience in business development and licensing, including competitive landscape assessment, industry analysis, and scientific support for transactions and due diligence.
• Track record of mentoring and developing scientists across disciplines, elevating organizational capability.
• Experience in portfolio strategy and management, including dashboarding, data visualization, and resource planning.
• Ability to operate with agility in a dynamic environment, adapting evolving priorities while maintaining strategic focus.
• Passion for scientific innovation, problem-solving, and developing others, with strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Salary range: $231,900 – $365,000 (annual).
• Eligibility for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.
• Medical, dental, vision, and other insurance benefits for employee and family.
• Retirement benefits, including 401(k) plan.
• Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days.
• Hybrid work arrangement; 1st‑day shift.
• Travel requirement: 10%.
• Visa sponsorship:
  Yes.

Merck & Co., Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and remains committed to an inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected characteristic. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Job posting end date: 07/10/2026.