Principal Scientist - Drug Discovery

2w2 weeks ago

MSD

Rahway, US · Full-time · $169,700 – $267,200

About this role

The Principal Scientist, Drug Discovery in Research and Development will identify new molecular entities and technologies for animal health from Company Laboratories or external partners including human pharma, biotech companies, and academia. The successful candidate will drive novel targets forward. They will lead research programs from ideation through early research, proof-of-concept, and up to development.

This role involves advancing programs by interfacing with researchers and senior management organization-wide, as well as external partners. Operate within a matrix structure to secure resources for Medicinal and Process Chemistry, in vitro Pharmacology, Pharmacokinetics, Disease Models, Formulation Development, and Safety & Toxicology. The position reports directly to the Distinguished Scientist and Global Head of Research & Development Liaison and Discovery – Non-infectious Diseases.

Daily work includes planning, recommending, and completing research programs independently. Manage multiple projects with budgets, contracts, and timelines. Prepare executive-level presentations, documents, and patent applications to support research efforts.

Grow by leading from ideation to development stages while building collaborations. Engage in 10% travel to foster partnerships. Contribute to regulatory knowledge in GLP, GCP, and GMP within pharmaceutical research.

Requirements

Minimum of 8 years industry or pharmaceutical research experience in drug discovery or preclinical research with focus on in vivo pharmacology
Advanced scientific knowledge in pharmacology, disease mechanisms, and related preclinical models
Expertise in one of the following: oncology, diabetes, respiratory & immunology, cardiology, pain & inflammation, reproduction, drug delivery, or biotechnology
Knowledge of regulatory aspects including GLP, GCP, and GMP
Ability to manage multiple projects, including budgets, contracts, and timelines
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Effective creator of executive-level presentations and documents
Experience preparing patent applications

Responsibilities

Identify new molecular entities and technologies for animal health from internal labs or external partners
Advance novel targets and lead research programs from ideation through proof-of-concept to development
Interface with researchers, senior management, and external partners to advance programs
Operate in matrix structure to garner resources across chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology
Independently plan, recommend, and complete research programs
Manage multiple projects including budgets, contracts, and timelines
Prepare executive-level presentations, documents, and patent applications