Sr. Principal Scientist, Clinical Operations Immunology Lead

Job Description Translational Medicine (TMed) drives early clinical development of novel therapeutics by partnering with Discovery Sciences and Late-Stage Clinical Research to translate scientific discoveries into human proof-of-concept and advance the most promising candidates through the pipeline to patients. Our Clinical and Operations organization designs and executes clinical pharmacology strategies spanning first-in-human studies through proof-of-biology/proof-of-concept and into late-stage development, supporting worldwide marketing applications and lifecycle management. Role Overview The Immunology Clinical Operations Lead position provides strategic and operational leadership across early immunology programs, ensuring timely, high-quality execution of clinical studies and clinical pharmacology strategies worldwide. The successful candidate will telescope between strategy and hands‑on execution across a portfolio of diverse modalities (peptides, small molecules, biologics), partner cross‑functionally to develop the needed expertise to successfully advance programs to key inflection points in development. This role is equivalent in level to a Senior Director position. Key Responsibilities Co‑own and execute the early clinical development strategy for the immunology portfolio with the Head of TMed Immunology. Provide comprehensive strategic planning and operational oversight for immunology clinical programs and trials to maximize operational feasibility, efficiency, and ensure consistency and quality across the portfolio. Build global network of immunology sites and foster relationships with key investigators for Phase 1b/2a patient trials to deliver on clinical program goals. Serve as the deep subject‑matter expert and issue escalation point for early immunology clinical operations. Ensure appropriate resources, competencies, and partnerships are in place to meet objectives. Critically review strategy and clinical program documents (development plans, investigator’s brochures, protocols, etc.), providing scientific and operational insight to ensure best path forward. Partner with Business Development and Licensing to evaluate internal and external opportunities that align with portfolio strategy. Actively participate in annual and quarterly planning cycles: identify risks, develop and execute mitigation plans, and track performance metrics and outcomes. Ensure immunology data integrity across organization (Book of Business, CTMS, etc.). Build and sustain strong cross‑functional relationships (country operations, clinical supplies, data management, regulatory, etc.) across departments, divisions, and geographies. Foster the people pipeline: attract, coach, mentor, and retain talent; provide performance management support; act as “player‑coach” to enrich group skillsets. Potential for people management. Represent TMed on enterprise strategic initiatives and lead continuous‑improvement efforts that increase clinical efficiency and scientific impact. Serve as a member of the TMed Clinical Operations leadership team and contribute to shaping department strategy. Education Requirements Degree in Life Sciences with one of the following experience combinations: Bachelor’s degree + ≥16 years related experience. Master’s degree + ≥15 years related experience. PhD/PharmD + ≥12 years related experience. Related Experience Includes: pharmaceutical industry roles in clinical drug development, clinical trial management, clinical site monitoring/training, medical/regulatory writing, or translational science. Required Experience and Skills Extensive clinical operations experience in the planning and execution of early clinical development trials (Phase 1 and early proof‑of‑concept). Demonstrated ability to translate knowledge to other areas to effectively collaborate, network, and influence peers, senior leaders, and external partners. Proven track record building and leading high‑performing cross‑functional teams in a matrixed environment. Strong decision‑making skills, weighing advantages, disadvantages, and business impact for rapid decisions and proven track record delivering results on firm deadlines. Ability to work successfully with ambiguity and embrace uncertainty. Strong oral and written communication skills. Experience attracting, developing, and retaining talent. Preferred Experience and Skills Experience leading clinical programs and trials for gastroenterology, dermatology, and/or rheumatology, especially autoimmune or immune‑mediated disorders, including in both large and small pharma contexts. Familiarity with broader pharmaceutical industry considerations and trends beyond clinical development. 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. For more information about personal rights under the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit: EEOC Know Your Rights, EEOC GINA Supplement. Salary and Benefits The salary range for this role is $210,400.00 – $331,100.00. 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, healthcare, retirement benefits (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. More information about benefits is available at Job Posting End Date: 07/6/2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck