Assoc. Dir, Regulatory Affairs-CMC
Merck
- Location
- Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
- Employment
- Full Time
- Work model
- On-Site
- Level
- Mid
- Salary
- $142.4k – $224.1k/yr
- Posted
- Aug 17, 2026
Skills
About this role
Job Description
Associate Principal Scientist, Regulatory CMC Digital Innovation Rahway, NJ or West Point, PA Our Company is a global health care leader with a diversified portfolio of prescription medicines, vaccines and animal health products. Today, we are building a new kind of healthcare company – one that is ready to help create a healthier future for all of us. Our ability to excel depends on the integrity, knowledge, imagination, skill and teamwork of an individual like you. To this end, we strive to create an environment of mutual respect, encouragement, and teamwork. As part of our global team, you’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with talented and dedicated colleagues while developing and expanding your career. The Associate Director, Regulatory CMC Digital Innovation is a key execution and enablement-focused role reporting to the Executive Director of Regulatory CMC Digital Innovation. The role will focus on developing digital and AI (Artificial Intelligence) innovations and solutions across all aspects of Regulatory CMC workflows. This individual will serve as a subject matter expert (SME) to help Regulatory CMC teams develop, adopt, implement, and maximize digital and AI tools to drive productivity and operational excellence. Additionally, this role will link Regulatory CMC initiatives to GRACS-wide projects and broader Enterprise Digital Initiatives and partnering closely with counterparts (in our Research & Development Division and our Manufacturing Division) to develop and implement integrated solutions.
Responsibilities
AI-Enabled Authoring & Innovation: Drive the advancement of AI-enabled regulatory authoring capabilities (including Module 2/3 authoring innovations), drafting practical job aids, and continuously identifying novel generative AI drafting opportunities. Emerging Tech Advocacy: Keep abreast of rapid technological advancements (the latest AI, machine learning, digital tools, etc.) and assessing their utility for Regulatory CMC processes. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Lead and coordinate cross-functional activities relating to development of AI authoring, process automation, regulatory intelligence, and digital transformation initiatives. Digital Operating Model Support: Partner in establishing, communicating, and embedding the CMC digital/AI operating model to connect, align, and scale localized AI efforts with broader enterprise digital strategies. Partner with the Regulatory CMC Systems/Operations group regarding the development of digital solutions impacting our regulatory platforms (e.g., Veeva) as needed. Application Ownership & Reporting: Serve as the primary Regulatory CMC point of contact for selected key digital tools and platforms (such as the ERA App), and support CMC digital priority tracking and progress reporting. Research & Development Division-Manufacturing Division Partnerships: Work collaboratively across our Divisions to identify shared digital opportunities, co-develop cross-functional solutions, and ensure smooth data and process handoffs between manufacturing, research, and regulatory. Advocacy & Change Management: Actively champion enterprise-wide AI adoption by participating in champion networks (e.g., AI Pioneers Champions Network), coordinating feedback loops, and driving change management and training activities. Mentorship & Community Building: Propose, lead, and mentor digital project teams—including guiding GRACS CMC summer intern projects focused on AI-enabled authoring and process improvement—while fostering collaboration across the broader AI/Digital Enablement community.
Education
Minimum BS or equivalent Scientific, Technical, or Regulatory degree (focus on chemistry, biology, pharmacy, computer science, or data analytics preferred).
Required Experience
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, with a strong background in Regulatory CMC, Regulatory Affairs, or related pharmaceutical technical