Global Head of Discovery Pharmacology

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United As One for Patients, our purpose in Healthcare is to help create, improve and prolong lives. We develop medicines, intelligent devices and innovative technologies in therapeutic areas such as Oncology, Neurology and Fertility. Our teams work together across 6 continents with passion and relentless curiosity in order to help patients at every stage of life. Joining our Healthcare team is becoming part of a diverse, inclusive and flexible working culture, presenting great opportunities for personal development and career advancement across the globe.

**Position**: Global Head of Discovery Pharmacology

**Reporting**: Reports to the Global Head of Discovery and Development Technologies

**Discovery and Development Technologies (DDTech) **is a global, integrated team that encompasses multiple functions, including Medicinal Chemistry, Discovery Sciences, Antibody and ADC technologies, DMPK, Chemical, and Pre-clinical Safety. DDTech oversees the discovery strategy and execution of novel molecular entities, such as NCEs, NBEs, and ADCs. In close partnership with the Oncology, Neurology, and Immunology Research and Development Units (RU and DU, respectively), DDTech plays a vital role in advancing Merck’s discovery and development programs. Moreover, it supports external innovation and business development activities, contributing to the progress of Merck’s R&D portfolio. The team has a strong track record, as evidenced by successful pipeline projects like Tepmetko, Evobrutinib, Enpatoran, and Bavencio.

**Your role**

In the very dynamic interface between Biology and Chemistry, the **Global Head of Discovery Pharmacology **will lead teams of scientist covering broad expertise in digital and automation, structural biology and biophysics, molecular

**Responsibilities**:

- Provide leadership and strategic direction to Discovery Sciences teams, overseeing areas such as molecular & cellular pharmacology, high throughput screening, multi-omics, structural biology, and digital & automation.
- Set clear objectives, milestones, and operational plans to achieve departmental and organizational goals.
- Focus on scientific impact in a cost-conscious, efficient setup, and leverage CROs and collaborations across the globe.
- Coach and provide performance feedforward, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and talent development.
- Collaborate with diverse cross-functional, internal and external teams from the definition of the therapeutic hypothesis, the selection and characterization of the preferred molecular modality, to informed discovery and clinical strategies across diverse therapeutic areas.
- Continuously enhance the organization's capabilities and stay updated on industry trends and cutting edge technologies, inlcuding digital and automation, multi-omics and artificial intelligence (AI).
- Contribute to fostering a science culture through scientific publications, presentations at conferences, and participation in scientific advisory boards.
- Act as a core member of the company’s Research therapeutic area-specific Research Unit Leadership teams (RULT) drining the pipeline across Oncology, Immuno-Oncology, Neurology, and Immunology therapy areas As a member of the DDTech leadership team, shape the Small Molecule, Antibody, and Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADC) discovery strategy and represent Discovery Sciences and/or DDTech in interactions with Health Care senior management and external stakeholders.

**Who you are**:

- PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, or another Life Science
- 10+ years of experience working in global matrix R&D organizations, working experience in crossfunctional and international teams with demonstrated success
- Profound understanding of the R&D value chain and drug discovery process
- Experience in Tumour Biology preferred
- Extensive experience in vitro pharmacology, assay development and automation with deep understanding of innovative molecular modalities beyond traditional small and large molecules.
- Deep understanding of relevant technology and trends; proven track record of advancing small molecules as well as antibodies from target ID to clinical phase.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and passion to manage a large team of scientists and research associates.
- Track record in successfully leading global teams through transformations, deep expertise in change management and comprehensive understanding of employee engagement principles
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