Principal Scientist – Translational Medicine (Neuroscience)

About the role

MSD is seeking a physician‑scientist to lead early clinical development of novel neuroscience therapeutics in the United States. The Principal Scientist will operate at the intersection of discovery and clinical research, shaping translational strategies for neurologic and psychiatric diseases.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with basic science teams to identify and validate novel targets, designing pre‑clinical and clinical experiments.
• Lead cross‑functional groups—including discovery scientists, pharmacologists, toxicologists, and regulatory affairs—to advance candidates from pre‑clinical stages through Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials.
• Design and execute clinical pharmacology studies across all development phases, including drug‑drug interaction, formulation changes, and special‑population studies.
• Develop and implement biomarker strategies using imaging, electrophysiology, wearables, and behavioral assessments.
• Represent MSD in external scientific communities, engage thought leaders, and contribute to publications and conference presentations.

Required profile

• MD or MD/PhD (or international equivalent) with a record of scientific scholarship and publications.
• Completion or anticipated completion of residency training; board eligibility or certification in Neurology, Psychiatry, or related discipline is preferred.
• Experience in clinical medicine and a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across therapeutic areas.

Required skills

• Biomedical research
• Clinical development
• Translational medicine
• Clinical trial planning
• Neuroscience research
• Early clinical development