Senior Director, Clinical Science, Oncology Early Development (Hybrid)

Merck seeks a Senior Director of Clinical Science to provide strategic leadership for early-phase oncology assets from candidate transition through first-in-human studies and proof-of-concept evaluation. The role integrates clinical, translational, and biomarker expertise to shape development plans, standardize scientific practices, and drive data-informed decisions across the oncology portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic clinical science leadership across multiple early oncology studies, programs, and assets
• Establish and advance consistent clinical science standards for development planning, data review, and interpretation
• Guide interpretation of clinical data across studies and assets to inform portfolio decisions and risk identification
• Support protocol development, study design, endpoint selection, and biomarker strategy discussions
• Manage and mentor multiple clinical scientists and provide coaching within matrix environment

Requirements

• Deep expertise in early-phase oncology clinical development and translational medicine
• Strong knowledge of biomarker strategy and first-in-human trial design
• Proven track record in dose escalation, cohort expansion, and proof-of-concept assessment
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing scientists in a matrix environment
• Demonstrated ability to integrate clinical, pharmacokinetic, and safety data for strategic decisions
• Knowledge of regulatory expectations and emerging oncology development methodologies