Distinguished Scientist, Quantitative Biosciences/ Nonclinical Pharmacology

Job Overview 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. Position Overview We have an exciting opportunity for a Distinguished Scientist with deep experience spanning drug discovery, nonclinical pharmacology, and broader pharmaceutical Research and Development (R&D) to join our Quantitative Biosciences (QB) leadership team. Reporting to the Vice President and Global Head of QB and partnering with discovery scientists across our global Discovery, Preclinical, & Translational Medicine (DPTM) organization, you will leverage your expertise in pharmacology, disease biology, and drug discovery to shape QB and network‑wide strategy, guide project teams, and drive cross‑functional collaboration. 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, 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 translating 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. 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. 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. Required Skills Coaching Cross‑Functional Teamwork Drug Development Executive Presence Influence Mentorship Pharmacology Research Leadership Strategic Translational Research Location & Travel 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 applicable state and local laws. Domestic/International relocation eligible. Travel Requirements: 10%. Shift and Work Arrangement Shift: 1st – Day. Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid. Compensation Salary Range: $231,900.00 – $365,000.00. Annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable, may be offered. Benefits We offer a comprehensive package of benefits. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision, and other insurance (for employee and family), retirement benefits including 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement We are an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants 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 legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Job Posting Information Job Posting End Date: 07/10/2026. The posting is effective until 11:59:59 PM on the day before the listed end date. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck