Principal Scientist, Biology-Discovery

Principal Scientist – Screening & Compound Profiling (Quantitative Biosciences) – Rahway, NJ The Screening & Compound Profiling group within the Quantitative Biosciences Department is seeking a Principal Scientist with deep expertise in applied quantitative pharmacology and/or biochemistry to join our Research Laboratories in Rahway, NJ. This role will provide senior-level expertise at the interface of in vitro pharmacology and quantitative modeling. The successful candidate will serve as a scientific resource across the broader research organization, contributing rigorous pharmacological analysis across programs and delivering mechanistic insight to drug discovery decisions spanning target classes, modalities, and therapeutic areas. Responsibilities Provide quantitative analysis and consultation to drug discovery project teams across the network, either as an embedded team member or as an advisory resource Develop and apply mechanistic and empirical models to characterize compound activity and inform structure–activity relationships Translate pharmacological data into actionable recommendations for medicinal chemistry, biology, and translational colleagues Mentor junior scientists in analytical methods, modeling approaches, and effective data communication Represent Screening & Compound Profiling in cross‑functional and cross‑site settings, contributing pharmacological perspective to broader strategic discussions Foster a collaborative, inclusive team environment that supports scientific rigor and professional growth Education Ph.D. in pharmacology, biochemistry, biophysics, or a closely related discipline with 10years of relevant experience. Required Experience & Skills Extensive drug discovery experience, preferably in an industry setting, with demonstrated impact across multiple programs and/or therapeutic areas Deep expertise in quantitative pharmacological frameworks including dose‑response analysis, enzyme kinetics, receptor binding theory, and mechanistic modeling of drug action Strong mathematical foundation in calculus, ordinary differential equations, and applied statistics as used in pharmacological modeling and quantitative data analysis Exceptional communication skills — able to construct clear, data‑driven narratives and calibrate delivery to diverse audiences without sacrificing scientific rigor Established scientific reputation evidenced by publications, presentations, or recognized contributions to the field Preferred Experience & Skills Proficiency in scientific computing (Python and/or R) for model fitting, simulation, and development of analytical tools Familiarity with contemporary hit‑finding and screening approaches including affinity‑oriented techniques (DNA‑encoded libraries, mRNA display), high‑throughput screening (binding and cellular functional assays, biochemical functional readouts), and assay development, miniaturization, optimization, and validation for screening Familiarity with molecular and cell biology, physiology, and contemporary experimental approaches to evaluate experimental perturbation of biological processes including high‑content imaging, transcriptomics (RNA‑seq, DRUG‑seq), proteomics, and mass spectrometry, with sufficient quantitative literacy to interpret and contextualize results Required Skills Adaptability Biochemical assays Cell‑based assays Communication Compound screening Data analysis Detail‑oriented Enzymology Ethical compliance In vitro pharmacology Leading project teams Mathematics Mathematics modeling Mechanism of action Mentor coaching Molecular profiling Numerical modeling Persuasion Professional networking Quantitative reasoning Simulation models Statistics Systems biology EEO Statement We are 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. Compensation and Benefits Salary Range: $173,200.00 – $272,600.00. The successful candidate will be eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, other insurance benefits for employee and family, retirement benefits including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. #J-18808-Ljbffr MSD Malaysia