Distinguished Scientist, Quantitative Biosciences/ Nonclinical Pharmacology

Job Description 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, discovery, and development of life‑saving medications and vaccines. With over a century of experience and a steadfast dedication to scientific excellence, we have become a trusted name in the industry. Join our team and be a part of our mission to create a healthier future for all. In This Role You Will Serve as a scientific integrator, strategic partner, and chief‑of‑staff to the Vice President/Global Department Head of Quantitative Biosciences and on the QB leadership team, shaping enterprise pharmacology and translational strategy in alignment with QB and DPTM priorities. Drive clarity and alignment on pharmacology strategies that enable efficient SAR progression and translational confidence—ensuring approaches are fit‑for‑purpose, decision‑focused, and avoid unnecessary complexity. Apply deep expertise in biochemical, cellular, and translational systems to: Clarify mechanism‑of‑action and inform molecule differentiation at critical decision points. Guide fit‑for‑purpose assay and model strategies that streamline research operating plans (ROPs), and directly inform SAR and program progression. Advise and mentor broadly across QB and DPTM, guiding scientists and multidisciplinary teams in assay selection/design/execution, mechanistic pharmacology, and translational science to accelerate programs, elevate rigor, and develop talent. Act as a trusted advisor on high‑impact and complex programs, helping teams resolve key scientific uncertainties and translate complex data into clear, actionable insights that inform strategic and program‑level decisions. Shape the QB pharmacology portfolio and resourcing strategy, contributing to early target and end‑to‑end nonclinical pharmacology planning across disease areas and modalities, and driving visibility through portfolio dashboards, resource planning, and stakeholder alignment. Assess and interpret the evolving external landscape, delivering actionable insights on competitive pipelines, emerging trends, and strategic opportunities through dashboards, analyses, and executive‑ready recommendations. Partner closely with Business Development & Licensing (BD&L) 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, with deep expertise in mechanistic pharmacology, drug discovery, and preclinical development across modalities (small molecules, biologics, vaccines). Advanced degree (Ph.D.) preferred. Required Experience and Skills 15+ years of proven leadership in a biopharmaceutical setting, with extensive research experience and a demonstrated impact on drug discovery and translational programs. Experience in cardiometabolic disease, obesity, oncology, and/or immunology strongly preferred, with a track record reflected in publications and scientific reputation. Deep expertise across pharmacology disciplines, including biochemical/biophysical, cellular, and in vivo pharmacology, PK/PD, IVIVC, and translational science. Proven ability to simplify complex scientific challenges into clear, actionable strategies, and to influence without authority across organizational boundaries to drive alignment, consistency, and high‑quality decision‑making. Strong executive communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to effectively partner with senior leaders, cross‑functional teams, 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 beyond immediate teams. Experience in portfolio strategy and management, including dashboarding, data visualization, and resource planning. Ability to operate with agility in a dynamic environment, adapting to evolving priorities while maintaining strategic focus. A passion for scientific innovation, problem‑solving, and developing others, coupled with strong written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Skills Coaching, cross‑functional teamwork, drug development, executive presence, influence, mentorship, pharmacology, research leadership, strategic, translational research. Location and Eligibility US and Puerto Rico residents only. San Francisco residents only: We will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records for employment in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. Los Angeles residents only: We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $231,900.00 – $365,000.00. Eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and other insurance benefits for employee and family; retirement benefits including 401(k); paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. Additional Information Employee status: Regular. Relocation: Domestic/International. VISA sponsorship: Yes. Travel requirements: 10%. Flexible work arrangements: Hybrid. Shift: 1st – Day. Valid driving license: No. Hazardous material(s): n/a. Job posting end date: 07/10/2026. A job posting is effective until 11:59:59 PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Requisition ID: R401154. Equal Employment Opportunity 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. EEOC Know Your Rights EEOC GINA Supplement We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing together talented and committed people with diverse experiences, perspectives, skills and backgrounds. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when people with diverse ideas, broad experiences, backgrounds, and skills come together in a inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one another’s thinking and approach problems collectively. Learn more about your rights, including under California, Colorado and other US State Acts. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck