Senior Scientist, Biocatalysis

Job Description The Biocatalysis group within the Small Molecule Process Research & Development Department in Rahway, New Jersey is seeking a Senior Scientist to expand our capabilities to design and deliver world‑class biocatalytic solutions that enable the development of medicines. Our group applies and advances biocatalysis and associated core technologies to invent, develop, and implement sustainable synthetic routes across the small molecule pipeline. Our interdisciplinary team integrates biosynthetic logic, mechanistic investigation, data‑rich experimentation, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and advanced automation to drive innovation in drug discovery and development. By collaborating across process chemistry, chemical engineering, and analytical chemistry, we are transforming how molecules are made through innovative biocatalytic processes. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in biocatalysis or enzyme engineering, or a related discipline with a demonstrated ability to translate scientific innovations into practical solutions. The group collaborates broadly within our Company, with academic leaders, and with industry partners to expand and accelerate the impact of biocatalysis on human health. Job Responsibilities In this role, the successful candidate will contribute directly to the invention, development, and implementation of novel enzymes, biocatalytic reactions, and synthetic processes to support drug discovery, clinical supply, and commercial manufacturing. As part of multidisciplinary project teams, they will develop novel biocatalytic processes that enable efficient and scalable routes for drug development. The candidate will independently design and execute experiments, define novel approaches to challenging scientific problems, and work in teams to advance the application of biocatalysis for the benefit of the pipeline. They will give scientific presentations internally and externally, contribute to publications and patents, contribute to defining the scientific strategy on programs, and develop new approaches that accelerate research and development while advancing the fields of enzyme engineering and biocatalysis. Education Requirements Ph.D. or Postdoctoral Education in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Synthetic Biology, or a related field; or M.S. with at least 4 years of relevant industry experience; or B.S. with at least 5 years of relevant industry experience. Required Experience and Skills Demonstrated scientific accomplishments in biocatalysis, enzyme engineering, or a related field as evidenced by field‑impacting research publications. Deep expertise in biocatalysis, enzyme engineering, or a related field, with demonstrated ability to solve complex chemical or biochemical problems. Demonstrated ability to solve complex scientific problems in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment. Excellent communication and organizational skills. Preferred Experience and Skills Experience in developing biocatalytic or chemoenzymatic syntheses. Experience with multiple strategies to identify and engineer enzymes for biocatalytic use. Experience engineering novel biocatalysts, biosynthetic pathways, or de novo proteins. Familiarity with directed evolution, next‑generation sequencing, computational protein design, machine learning, microfluidics, analytical chemistry, chemical engineering, or laboratory automation. Experience with reproducible data analysis, for example, using Python or R. Benefits We offer a comprehensive package of benefits, including medical, dental, vision healthcare and other insurance benefits for employees and families, retirement benefits with 401(k) matching, paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. Detailed benefit information is available at Salary Range $117,000.00 – $184,200.00 (for the position, based on education, qualifications, experience, and location). Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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 any other legally protected characteristic. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr Merck