Principal Scientist (Director), Anatomic Pathologist

Job Description Translational Molecular Biomarkers (TMB) is responsible for translating preclinical molecular biomarkers to clinical development across all therapeutic areas and all phases of clinical development at our company’s Research Laboratories. TMB laboratories leverage a range of technologies to develop biomarker assays that confirm engagement of therapeutic targets and enhance understanding of drug mechanisms and patient response. Principal Scientist – Anatomic Pathologist (MD) The Translational Pathology group within TMB is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Anatomic Pathologist (MD) to lead development, analytical validation, and testing of histopathology‑based assays for clinical use and to advance digital pathology within the company’s clinical pipeline. Responsibilities Establish new histopathology‐based assays in the laboratory as part of a team. Provide thorough histopathological reviews and test clinical samples, leveraging expertise in disease processes targeted by our therapeutics. Collaborate in the development and analytical validation of digital pathology algorithms. Interface with scientists and physicians in early and late‑stage clinical development to execute histopathology‑based biomarker strategies in clinical trials. Provide expert pathologist input to discussions in a highly matrixed environment, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders. Position Qualifications Education Minimum Requirement: Doctor of Medicine (MD or equivalent) or MD/PhD with specialized training in Anatomic Pathology. Required Experience and Skills: Post‑residency training experience of 1‑3 years, including biological research and multidisciplinary teamwork. Proficient in general anatomic pathology diagnosis and routine histopathology testing, including IHC, cytogenetics (in‑situ hybridization), sample quality and testing procedures, and applicable laboratory testing regulations. Excellent oral and written skills with a record of scientific contributions. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage projects in a fast‑paced environment. Strong understanding of clinical laboratory regulatory standards and GxP workflows. Strong understanding of disease processes relevant to the company’s therapeutics. Preferred Experience and Skills Experience with the development and analytical validation of digital or computational pathology algorithms. Experience working in the diagnostic or pharmaceutical industry. Broad knowledge of the drug development process and translational medicine. Experience in clinical biomarker development or managing implementation of biomarker assays in drug development. Experience with multiplex tissue‑based spatial profiling assays (e.g., multiplex immunofluorescence, multiplex chromogenic IHC, imaging mass cytometry, spatial transcriptomics). Familiarity with clinical grade whole slide imaging platforms (e.g., Leica Aperio, Hamamatsu, Roche DP 600). Proficiency in commercial or open‑source image analysis software (e.g., Visiopharm, HALO, QuPath). Knowledge of statistical software (e.g., Prism, SPSS). Understanding of regulated clinical bioanalysis. Required Skills Anatomic Pathology, Biomarkers, Clinical Judgment, Clinical Research, Cross‑Functional Teamwork, Digital Pathology, Drug Development, Histopathology, Immunochemistry, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), Laboratory Research, Pathology, Translational Medicine Salary and Benefits Salary range: $255,800.00 – $402,700.00. Compensation is based on education, qualifications, experience, and business needs. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement plans (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days. 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. Location and Eligibility US and Puerto Rico Residents Only. San Francisco Residents Only. Los Angeles Residents Only. Job Posting Details Job Posting End Date: 07/23/2026 (effective until 11:59:59 PM on the day before the listed end date). Requisition ID: R404082. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck & Co.