Merck & Co. - West Point, PA
posted 2 months ago
Full-time - Entry Level
Onsite - West Point, PA
Chemical Manufacturing
About the position
The Associate Scientist in Upstream Vaccines and Advanced Biotechnologies Process Development will support the discovery and development efforts for vaccine programs at Merck Sharp & Dohme. This role involves performing lab-scale process development and scale-up studies, developing efficient cell culture processes for vaccine production, and participating in the manufacture of cGMP clinical bulks. The successful candidate will work in a multi-disciplinary environment, contributing expertise to various functional teams and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and documentation standards.
Responsibilities
- Perform lab-scale fermentation and cell culture processes for vaccine production.
- Conduct in-process assay support and process scale-up studies.
- Prepare and modify current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) documentation.
- Maintain and coordinate raw material and equipment inventories.
- Transfer processes to clinical or commercial manufacturing facilities for vaccine candidates.
- Function as a key member of a process development team and contribute subject matter expertise.
- Keep accurate records and comply with all required training and safety protocols.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Cell Biology, Biological Sciences, or Biotechnology.
- Proven ability to work in a hands-on laboratory setting.
- Effective organization, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with self-motivation and adaptability.
Nice-to-haves
- Direct experience with cell culture (CHO) and fermentation processes.
- Experience in upstream process development or expression system development for vaccines and/or biologics.
- Experience working with viral systems within a BSL-2 environment.
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Opportunities for career development
- Inclusive and diverse workplace culture
