Assoc Prin. Scientist, Clinical Research -PL Position

Job Description As CPDT PL, the candidate can lead the CPDT to develop and execute integrated China development strategies, influence global development decisions, drive cross-functional alignment, and deliver critical clinical and regulatory milestones to maximize the value of the portfolio in China. Key Responsibilities: Lead the development and execution of an integrated China development strategy for assigned assets, ensuring alignment with global development plans while maximizing registration and business opportunities in China. Chair and lead the China Product Development Team (CPDT) , driving cross-functional alignment across Clinical Research, Regulatory Affairs, Project Management, Medical Affairs, GCTO, Biomarkers, Commercial, CMC, and other key functions. Drive critical program decisions and governance interactions , including preparation of strategic recommendations and presentations for China governance bodies (e.g., CDRC) and global governance forums. Ensure successful delivery of key development and regulatory milestones , including protocol endorsement, study startup, enrollment, data generation, NDA submissions, approvals, and lifecycle management activities. Represent China as a strategic partner to global PDTs , influencing global development decisions through scientific insight, competitive intelligence, regulatory strategy, and local market considerations. Identify, assess, and manage program risks and opportunities , developing mitigation strategies and driving timely decision-making to maintain portfolio progression and maximize asset value. Foster a high-performing team environment by promoting collaboration, accountability, transparent communication, and effective execution across a complex matrix organization. Engage external stakeholders and key opinion leaders as appropriate , maintaining awareness of the evolving scientific, regulatory, and competitive landscape to strengthen development strategies. Core Competencies Strategic Leadership Enterprise & Portfolio Thinking Cross-functional Influence Decision Quality Stakeholder Management Execution Excellence Risk Management Communication & Collaboration Regulatory and Development Expertise Talent & Team Leadership Additional location(s) Compensation Information: Required Skills: Adverse Event Report, Adverse Event Report, Biochemistry, Clinical Judgment, Clinical Research, Clinical Site Management, Clinical Trial Management, Corporate Decision Making, Cross-Cultural Awareness, Data Management, Drug Regulatory Affairs, Ethical Standards, Global Coordination, Global Leadership, Industry Intelligence, Market Intelligence, Market Opportunity Analysis, Multiple Therapeutic Areas, Patient Recruitment, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, Portfolio Strategies, Professional Integrity, Protocol Development, Regulatory Governance, Regulatory Strategies {+ 10 more} Preferred Skills: Current Employees apply HERE Current Contingent Workers apply HERE Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully 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. Employee Status: Regular Relocation: VISA Sponsorship: Travel Requirements: Flexible Work Arrangements: Not Applicable Shift: Valid Driving License: Hazardous Material(s): Job Posting End Date: 10/31/2026 *A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFORE the listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.