Job Description

Sr. Scientist, Biology-Discovery

• Based in Singapore, the regional hub for Asia Pacific (AP) and top-ranked biopharmaceutical company on the Straits Times and Statistas list of Best Employers in Singapore for two consecutive years (2020, 2021).
• Join the premier biopharmaceutical company that has been in Singapore for more than 25 years and in AP for over 60 years.

Our Research Laboratories in Singapore are seeking a Senior Scientist with a strong background in molecular biology with subject matter expertise in areas related to the development of novel therapeutic approaches based around genetic modification, gene therapies or mRNA therapeutics. The candidate will play a critical role in developing strategies around the design and development of mRNA engineering and RNA structure analysis to advance novel therapeutic strategies. This position will offer the candidate the opportunity to work broadly across the company network and participate in and lead innovative drug discovery projects. The candidate should possess broad experimental capabilities and a strong work ethic, have excellent communication skills, and work effectively in a highly collaborative cross-functional team environment.WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Utilize your background and experience in molecular biology and cell-based assay development to design and implement novel screening assays and strategies to aid in the design, selection and optimization of sequences and targeted delivery to support early drug discovery programs, particularly around RNA therapeutics.
• Identify and apply emerging innovative methodologies and technology platforms to the development of research approaches in support of drug discovery projects
• Utilize your expertise in molecular biology to develop and implement state of the art approaches using gene editing tools to develop tools and reagents to advance drug discovery programs, including in the support of validation strategies for target-based, phenotypic, or mechanistic projects.
• Develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and validate protocols for new assays, enabling their integration into standard workflows.
• Work as part of an interdisciplinary team to support research strategies and project goals, critically analyze data and contribute ideas that will drive projects forward.
• Collaborate extensively across the research laboratory network and with external partners to advance therapeutic candidates and drive project progression toward key milestones.

WHAT YOU MUST HAVETo be successful in this role, you will have:

• PhD in Molecular Biology or Life Science-related discipline or BSc/MSc with more than five years significant relevant independent research experience and proven track record of independent scientific achievement.
• Expertise in sequence design, selection, optimization, plasmid generation, in vitro transcription/purification/in vitro transfection, cellular expression, and delivery methods. Advanced bioinformatics a plus
• Highly skilled in molecular biology with subject expertise in mRNA or skillsets and experience of relevance to mRNA-based therapeutics and next-generation drug delivery formulations.

• Expertise in the design, development, and execution of quantitative cell assays, using a wide range of modern technologies and detection methods.

• Strong track record in assay development, optimization and troubleshooting as well as data analysis.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in state-of-the-art technologies such as fluorescent- or luminescent-based techniques, flow cytometry, fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACs), and high-content confocal imaging. Experience with advanced lab automation and liquid handlers is a plus.
• Demonstrated experience in methodologies supporting target identification or validation, mechanism of action studies or hit-to-lead-finding activities.
• Solid experimental design, troubleshooting and data analysis skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and oral/written communication skills with ability to thrive in a goal driven team environment.
• Comfortable working in a matrix environment and handling several concurrent fast paced projects.
• A proven track record of high productivity and scientific publications in peer reviewed journals.

We are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing diverse, talented, and committed people together. The fastest way to breakthrough innovation is when diverse ideas come together in an inclusive environment. We encourage our colleagues to respectfully challenge one anothers thinking and approach problems collectively. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplaceCurrent Employees applyCurrent Contingent Workers applySearch Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.Employee Status: Temporary (Fixed Term)Relocation:VISA Sponsorship:Travel Requirements:Flexible Work Arrangements: Not ApplicableShift:Valid Driving License:Hazardous Material(s):Job Posting End Date: 12/15/2024*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

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