Associate Principal Scientist, In Vivo Pharmacology

Associate Principal Scientist – Quantitative Biosciences (Pharmacology) At our company, we are committed to improving the health and well‑being of people around the world. As a leading global pharmaceutical company, we strive to make a difference through innovative research and development of life‑saving medications and vaccines. Our Research Laboratories in South San Francisco are seeking a highly motivated and accomplished Associate Principal Scientist to join our Quantitative Biosciences (Pharmacology) department. This role will focus on developing in‑vivo pharmacology strategy and pharmacodynamics (PD) and efficacy models for cardiometabolic, renal, and respiratory diseases, as well as establishing quantitative PK/PD relationships and preclinical proof‑of‑concept. Working with a multidisciplinary team of scientists, the individual will apply knowledge of translational animal models, in‑vivo technology platforms, and quantitative pharmacology to advance the pipeline of therapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical skills and deep scientific expertise to manage complex projects both internally and with external partners. Key Responsibilities Drive in‑vivo pharmacology strategy: act as a scientific leader, defining and executing in‑vivo model development and pharmacology strategy for preclinical programs. Design and execute target engagement, PD, and efficacy studies, ensuring high scientific and ethical standards. Provide expert troubleshooting for complex surgical and study protocols. Leverage disease‑area expertise for project support: apply relevant knowledge of cardiometabolic, renal, or respiratory disorders to guide model selection and prioritization. Lead model development and validation: drive the development, characterization, and selection of relevant in‑vivo models for target validation, compound screening, and mechanism‑of‑action studies. Collaborate with cross‑functional groups (Biology, Med Chem, DMPK, Safety, etc.) to enable a comprehensive pharmacology strategy that supports robust assessment of target engagement, in‑vitro/in‑vivo correlation, PK/PD relationship, and human dose projection. Data analysis, interpretation, and reporting: perform rigorous data analysis, interpret key findings, and translate complex results into actionable insights that inform project decisions. Maintain experimental documentation and contribute to internal reports, governance discussions, regulatory submissions, and publications. CRO and external partner management: work effectively with internal stakeholders and external partners on the design and execution of studies, ensuring data quality and timely delivery of results. Qualifications Education: Bachelor's (with 12+ years), Master's (with 8+ years), or Ph.D./PharmD/DVM/MD (with 4+ years) in Pharmacology or a relevant scientific discipline and relevant drug discovery experience. Required Experience and Skills: Quantitative and translational pharmacology expertise with a solid understanding of key pharmacology concepts including target occupancy, in‑vitro/in‑vivo correlation, PK/PD, translational biomarker, and methods for human dose projection. Proven record of success in preclinical‑in‑vivo‑model development and implementation, with strong expertise in cardiovascular physiology and in‑vivo methodologies such as rodent surgical skills for cardiometabolic, renal, or respiratory disease models. Highly skilled in the design and execution of animal studies to evaluate target engagement, PK/PD, efficacy, and safety profiles of drug candidates, using a range of in‑vivo and ex‑vivo techniques. Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with a proven ability to manage complex preclinical projects. Strong teamwork and communication skills, with an ability to collaborate effectively in a cross‑functional matrix environment. Strong work ethic and flexibility, able to respond quickly to shifting priorities and multitasking needs. Must be willing to work onsite five days per week. Preferred Experience and Skills: Experience with in‑vivo imaging techniques (ultrasound, MRI, optical imaging, etc.). Prior experience working with multiple therapeutic modalities (small molecule, peptide, biologic, etc.). Salary and Benefits Salary range: $159,600.00 – $251,200.00. Eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, healthcare insurance for employee and family; retirement benefits including 401(k); paid holidays, vacation, compassionate, and sick days. More information about benefits is available at Equal Employment Opportunity We are a federal contractor and 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. For more information about your rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit EEOC Know Your Rights and EEOC GINA Supplement. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck & Co.