Associate Principal Scientist, Discovery Oncology
Merck • South San Francisco, CA • Posted June 27, 2026
About the Role
**Job Description**
We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Associate Principal Scientist to join our Discovery Oncology team in South San Francisco. The successful candidate will have a strong track record in oncology and drug discovery and will lead the conception, design, and execution of discovery-stage research programs. In this role, you will partner closely with cross-functional teams across the organization to advance differentiated cancer therapies from target validation through early development.
**Key Responsibilities:**
Design, establish, and optimize in vitro and ex vivo assays to elucidate mechanisms of action and assess therapeutic potential.
Make timely, data-driven decisions that balance innovation, risk, and experimental rigor
Communicate scientific strategy, rationale, and results clearly to internal teams and help build external scientific presence through publications, conference presentations, and collaboration...
We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Associate Principal Scientist to join our Discovery Oncology team in South San Francisco. The successful candidate will have a strong track record in oncology and drug discovery and will lead the conception, design, and execution of discovery-stage research programs. In this role, you will partner closely with cross-functional teams across the organization to advance differentiated cancer therapies from target validation through early development.
**Key Responsibilities:**
Design, establish, and optimize in vitro and ex vivo assays to elucidate mechanisms of action and assess therapeutic potential.
Make timely, data-driven decisions that balance innovation, risk, and experimental rigor
Communicate scientific strategy, rationale, and results clearly to internal teams and help build external scientific presence through publications, conference presentations, and collaboration...