Job Description

We are currently seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist (m/f/d) with a strong technical background and hands-on experience in biochemical analytical methods to join our Biologics Analytical Department in Switzerland

In this role, you will be part of a multidisciplinary team supporting the development of novel biopharmaceuticals. As an active member of our global bioanalytical development network, you will collaborate closely with colleagues at our U.S. research sites to apply state-of-the-art technologies in support of biotechnology process development.

Our integrated Biologics Analytical Department provides analytical support to the Biotechnology Department, including release and stability testing of biological drug substances. We also oversee global outsourcing of analytics for biologics, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal standards. Additionally, the department conducts raw material, starting material, and in-process testing for biological drug substances.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement new analytical methods for release and stability testing in a GMP laboratory;

• Re-develop methods in direct collaboration with global method development teams;

• Execute analytical method validations and transfers (to other company sites and CROs);

• Author technical protocols, reports, analytical methods, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and related documentation;

• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in global development teams for selected methods;

• Train departmental analysts on new technologies;

• Perform second scientist review of analytical release and stability data in electronic laboratory notebooks;

• Initiate and lead change records, deviations, and laboratory investigations;

• Contribute to and lead department- and company-wide initiatives focused on scientific or compliance innovation.

Qualifications

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, or Biological Sciences with initial industry experience;

• Alternatively, a Master’s degree with 3+ years of industry experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with 7+ years of experience.

Experience and Skills:

• Proven experience in analytical testing and characterization of biomolecules using HPLC/UPLC methods;

• Proficiency in chromatography data systems (preferably Empower);

• Solid understanding of protein biochemistry and/or biochemical analytical techniques; experience with biophysical methods is a plus;

• Demonstrated ability to solve complex technical or scientific problems in a GMP-regulated environment;

• Hands-on experience in GMP operations and analytical method validation;

• Experience presenting and discussing results in global project teams under tight timelines;

• Strong collaboration skills in diverse, cross-functional team environments;

• Excellent communication skills in English and German, both written and verbal;

• A team-oriented mindset with a commitment to mutual respect and shared success.

THE COMPANY

Our company has had a presence in Switzerland since 1963. With a regional office and manufacturing/packaging facility, Lucerne is considered the center of operations. Approximately 1,000 people work collaboratively at the four Lucerne locations (Tribschenstrasse, Citybay, Schachen and Kriens). A fifth location has been established in Zurich, aimed at accelerating the development and commercialization of many of our company’s medicines and vaccines, which supports our mission to save and improve lives around the world.

We are proud to be certified as a “Top Employer Switzerland” and “Top Employer Europe” showing the company’s commitment to our employees and the community around us.

Our Schachen site is crucial for the development and supply of innovative medicines. With over 400 employees, we focus on producing and testing new biological medicines. From Schachen, we export new drugs for global clinical trials, ensuring their safety and efficacy. Additionally, our site investigates suspected cases of drug counterfeiting, operating as one of only three such laboratories worldwide

Required Skills:

Adaptability, Analytical Method Development, Assay Development, Bioanalytical Analysis, Biochemical Assays, Cell-Based Assays, Chromatographic Techniques, GMP Environments, Innovative Thinking, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Analysis, Process Analytical Technology (PAT), Strategic Thinking, Technical Writing, Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC)

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search 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:

Regular

Relocation:

No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:

No

Travel Requirements:

No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

Not Indicated

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

N/A

Job Posting End Date:

10/18/2025

*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.