Associate Principal Scientist, Process Analytical Technology

Job Description

Our Research Scientists are our Inventors. We identify and target steps in disease mechanisms or pathways that could be inhibited or enhanced. Our goal is to isolate a compound that is effective against a disease target. Using innovative thinking, state-of-the-art facilities and robust scientific methodology we collaborate to discover the next medical breakthrough.

Position Responsibilities:

As a member of Global Pharmaceutical Organization-Analytical Chemistry in Development and Supply (GPO-ACDS), you will be responsible for identifying opportunities suitable for the application of novel technologies, advanced modeling approaches beyond empirical modeling and opportunities for advanced process control (APC) across small and large molecules processes in our Manufacturing Division. This role also has significant digital component in regards to integration of data systems, manufacturing data control systems and systems control software. The selected individual will have the opportunity to collaborate with Technical Operations, IT, Quality and other manufacturing groups at multiple sites to make significant contributions towards our Company’s process robustness and consistency goals.

The scope of the contributions include development and implementation of mechanistic & 1st principles models, advanced process control, model predictive control algorithms and system integration that will ultimately help meet our Company’s World Class Supply objectives of highest quality, lowest cost, and shortest lead time.

• Lead the development and implementation of mechanistic and 1st principles models for control of product quality attributes for a wide variety of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

• Lead interactions with end-users to understand business needs and develop solutions based on Advanced Process Control principles.

• Active engagement with IT groups to integrate PAT sensor technology with IT/Data systems.

• Identify opportunities for Advanced Process Control and collaborate with relevant groups to implement novel controllers.

Education Minimum Requirement:

• B.S., M.S. or Ph.D. Chemistry, Statistics, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or related discipline.

Required Experience and Skills:

• M.S. in aforementioned disciplines with at least 5 years OR B.S. with at least 8 years of industry experience.

• Expertise in the design and selection of various control algorithms including PID loops, multivariate model predictive control, advanced process control such as adaptive, predictive, feed-forward and feed-backward control.

• Empirical modeling skills such as Partial Least Squares, Principal Component Analysis and modeling of dynamic systems.

• Mechanistic and 1st Principles modeling expertise of systems biology and of small molecule processes such as crystallization.

• Demonstrated history of having deployed monitoring or control algorithms in manufacturing environments.

• Ability to communicate broadly & translate process requirements into process control and automation strategies.

Preferred Experience and Skills:

• Experience with implementation of MVDA, MSPC or APC in a GMP environment.

• Knowledge of basic controls system hardware architecture, including PLCs, DCS, SCADA, etc.

• Experience with Matlab Simulink or other similar software.

• Experience with one or more data historians such as Oracle or SQL databases.

• Expertise in signal processing and is knowledgeable on controller validation, tuning and optimization.

• Applicant must have excellent written and oral communication skills and will be expected to continually draw upon his/her ability to think independently, to solve problems, and to apply innovative scientific approaches.

We are a research-driven biopharmaceutical company. Our mission is built on the simple premise that if we “follow the science” and that great medicines can make a significant impact to our world. And we believe that a research-driven enterprise dedicated to world-class science can succeed by inventing medicine and vaccine innovations that make a difference for patients across the globe.

Who we are …

We are known as Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA in the United States and Canada and MSD everywhere else. For more than a century, we have been inventing for life, bringing forward medicines and vaccines for many of the world's most challenging diseases. Today, our company continues to be at the forefront of research to deliver innovative health solutions and advance the prevention and treatment of diseases that threaten people and animals around the world.

What we look for …

In a world of rapid innovation, we seek brave Inventors who want to make an Impact in all aspects of our business, enabling breakthroughs that will affect generations to come. We encourage you to bring your disruptive thinking, collaborative spirit and diverse perspective to our organization. Together we will continue Inventing For Life, Impacting Lives while Inspiring Your Career Growth.

Invent. Impact. Inspire.

NOTICE FOR INTERNAL APPLICANTS

In accordance with Managers' Policy - Job Posting and Employee Placement, all employees subject to this policy are required to have a minimum of twelve (12) months of service in current position prior to applying for open positions.

If you have been offered a separation benefits package, but have not yet reached your separation date and are offered a position within the salary and geographical parameters as set forth in the Summary Plan Description (SPD) of your separation package, then you are no longer eligible for your separation benefits package. To discuss in more detail, please contact your HRBP or Talent Acquisition Advisor.

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

US and Puerto Rico Residents Only:

Our company is committed to inclusion, ensuring that candidates can engage in a hiring process that exhibits their true capabilities. Please click here if you need an accommodation during the application or hiring process.

For more information about personal rights under Equal Employment Opportunity, visit:

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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 another’s thinking and approach problems collectively. We are an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., Kenilworth, 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:

Relocation:

VISA Sponsorship:

Travel Requirements:

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Shift:

Valid Driving License:

Hazardous Material(s):

Number of Openings:

Requisition ID:R122197