Job Description

Join us at the forefront of scientific innovation, where you will shape the future of animal health by connecting breakthrough science to real-world impact. This is a unique opportunity to build and grow a new capability in Europe while working with cutting-edge technologies and global experts.

Purpose of the Position

As Principal Scientist External Innovation, you will play a key role in strengthening our R&D pipeline by identifying, evaluating, and connecting early-stage scientific innovations to our strategic priorities. You will focus on technology scouting and external collaboration, translating scientific advancements into future opportunities across our animal health portfolio.

Welcome to Our Team

You’ll join our global R&D hub in the Netherlands at the forefront of veterinary science. Our Research Science teams discover and develop the building blocks of innovative vaccines that protect animal health worldwide. Working across disciplines such as biology, microbiology, and virology, you’ll contribute to antigen discovery, vaccine design, and early‑stage development. You’ll collaborate closely with experts in process development and manufacturing to translate science into safe, effective products used across the globe. From laboratory research to animal studies and global submissions, your work will have a direct impact on improving the health and well‑being of animals.

Main Responsibilities

• Technology Scouting: Identify and evaluate emerging technologies in animal health (e.g., vaccines, biologicals), including opportunities where solutions can be improved or are not yet available

• External Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with biotech companies, universities, and research organizations to explore collaboration opportunities

• Evaluation & Due Diligence: Lead cross-functional assessments of external innovations, including feasibility studies and business case development

• Integration & Implementation: Support the integration of external innovations into the R&D pipeline, aligning with Discovery & Technology and strategic objectives

• Epidemiology Monitoring: Track emerging disease trends and inform R&D teams on potential new opportunities or risks

• Patent Screening: Monitor competitor activities and relevant intellectual property developments

• Advocacy & Representation: Represent Animal Health at conferences and industry events, building a strong external network

Your Profile

• Background in biosciences (e.g., biology, immunology, veterinary sciences or related field), preferably a PhD

• Proven experience in scientific roles within animal health, preferably within different livestock and companion animal species

• Ability to translate complex science into meaningful insights and opportunities

• Strong networking and relationship-building skills

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage both scientific and cross-functional stakeholders

• Independent, proactive, and comfortable working in an evolving, exploratory environment

• Broad understanding of vaccine technologies, biologicals, or emerging modalities

• Experience working across multiple stakeholders or disciplines (e.g. R&D, academia, biotech) is a plus

What we offer

The opportunity to leverage your strong leadership, competent project management, and creativity, turning cutting-edge science into validated, actionable opportunities. This role is critical to shaping our future and expanding our livestock and companion animal market presence. Our benefits are very competitive, and the summary below will give you an idea of what you can expect:

• Competitive compensation aligned with your knowledge and experience.

• 3% year-end payment and an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.

• Long Term Incentive Plan.

• 25 days of leave.

• Solid Pension Plan.

• Excellent accessibility: the train station is right by our main entrance and there is ample parking.

• High-quality company restaurant with fresh, healthy options daily.

• Contribution toward your personal sports/fitness membership to support your vitality.

• Beautiful private park on the premises, ideal for a walk, break, or moment of relaxation.

• Mental well-being support via Lyra Health for you and your family members.

• Access to a dedicated prayer/meditation room.

Required Skills:

Preferred Skills:

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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. 

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