Associate Principal Scientist – In Vivo Pharmacology

About the role

The Associate Principal Scientist will join MSD’s In Vivo Pharmacology team in South San Francisco, focusing on pre‑clinical strategy for cardiometabolic, renal and respiratory disease programs. The role drives the design, execution and quantitative analysis of in‑vivo pharmacology studies to generate PK/PD relationships and proof‑of‑concept data.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute in‑vivo model development and pharmacology strategy for multiple therapeutic areas.
• Design, conduct and troubleshoot target‑engagement, PD and efficacy studies while maintaining high scientific and ethical standards.
• Lead validation of in‑vivo assays, integrate quantitative pharmacology, and support human dose projection.
• Collaborate with biology, medicinal chemistry, DMPK, safety and external CRO partners to ensure robust data delivery.
• Analyze quantitative data, prepare internal reports, regulatory submissions and scientific publications.

Required profile

• Advanced degree (Ph.D./PharmD/DVM/MD) in Pharmacology or related discipline with relevant drug discovery experience.
• Proven record of leading in‑vivo pharmacology strategy and model/assay development.
• Deep expertise in cardiometabolic, renal or respiratory disease models and a range of in‑vivo methodologies.
• Strong organizational, critical‑thinking and cross‑functional partnership skills.
• Willingness to work onsite five days per week.

Required skills

• Quantitative pharmacology and PK/PD analysis.
• In‑vivo model development and validation.
• Target occupancy assessment and in‑vitro/in‑vivo correlation.
• In‑vivo imaging techniques (ultrasound, MRI, optical imaging).
• Experience with multiple therapeutic modalities (small molecule, peptide, biologic).

What we offer

• Annual bonus and long‑term incentive eligibility.
• Medical, dental, vision insurance for employee and family.
• Retirement benefits including 401(k) plan.
• Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate and sick days.