Job Description Key role in driving the advancement of biotherapeutic projects for companion animals. For our Animal Health location Boxmeer, we are currently recruiting a Senior R&D Project Leader (Companion Animal Biotherapeutics) Welcome to our team With more than 200 employees, our Global Research & Development (R&D) division is a pioneer in the discovery, development and registration of vaccines and therapeutics for animals. The Companion Animals (CA) R&D department, with presence in the United States and The Netherlands (Boxmeer), is responsible for the development and registration of products for cats, dogs, rabbits, and horses. To strengthen our team responsible for veterinary biotherapeutic projects for companion animals, we are looking for a Senior R&D Project Leader. Purpose of the role Reporting to the Companion Animals Species Lead Boxmeer, you will be responsible for driving designated veterinary biotherapeutic projects for companion animals spanning discovery to development with the aim of increasing the therapeutic product range of our organization. You will manage projects from pre-development to registration, during which you will lead and coordinate the multidisciplinary project team whilst making a substantial scientific contribution to the research and development of the product. Furthermore, you play a key role partnering with our Discovery & Technology team to design and deliver proof-of-concept programs. You will also be responsible for coordinating activities and interaction with other sites globally as well as outside partners including CROs and CDMOs to ensure the successful execution of project objectives within defined timelines and regulatory compliance. Your profile Ph.D. in Immunology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related biological discipline. Successful track record in the development of biotherapeutics and a solid understanding of the principles and intricacies of therapeutic monoclonal antibody generation and characterization with emphasis on technologies for antibody discovery, early developability assessment, biomolecular/cellular interaction assays, and analytical characterization. Experience developing and managing project plans, setting clear objectives and timelines, and allocating resources effectively. Strong problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities including the ability to analyze complex data, identify potential issues or risks, develop contingency plans, and drive solutions to keep the projects on track. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, learn quickly, stay updated on the latest scientific and technical advancements, and apply new knowledge effectively. Strong drive for results and a focus on meeting project objectives. A positive outlook, with experience working in multidisciplinary teams across multicultural, global organizations. Fluent spoken and written English. 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 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. Animal Health Our Animal Health Division is a trusted global leader in veterinary medicine, dedicated to preserving and improving health, well-being, and performance of animals and the people who care for them. We are a global team of professionals working together to make a positive difference in animal care and the world’s food supply and have a deep sense of responsibility towards our customers, consumers, animals, society, and our planet. Through our commitment to The Science of Healthier Animals®, we offer veterinarians, farmers, pet owners and governments one of the widest ranges of veterinary pharmaceuticals, vaccines and health management solutions and services as well as an extensive suite of digitally connected identification, traceability and monitoring products. We invest in dynamic and comprehensive R&D resources and a modern, global supply chain. We are present in more than 50 countries, while our products are available in some 150 markets. For questions about this vacancy Please send an email including the vacancy number and job title to the following email address: RecruitmentNL@MSD.com Applications can only be submitted via our careers site. Required Skills: Biopharmaceutics, Cross-Departmental Collaboration, Data Analysis, Experimentation, Immunochemistry, Immunology, Innovation Program, Monoclonal Antibodies, Monoclonal Antibody Development, Pharmaceutical Biology, Project Management, Project Planning, Research Proposal Development, Research Techniques, Scientific Research, Scientific Writing, Therapeutic Proteins, Therapeutics 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: 02/20/2026 *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. Our company is a global health care leader with a diversified portfolio of prescription medicines, vaccines and animal health products. The difference between potential and achievement lies in the spark that fuels innovation and inventiveness; this is the space where we have codified our legacy for over a century. Our success is backed by ethical integrity, forward momentum, and an inspiring mission to achieve new milestones in global healthcare.
