Data Scientist - II
Highlights
- Job Number MSD1JP00002788
- Location Rahway, NJ
- Pay Rate Up to: $68/Hour
- Start Date Mar 16, 2026 to Mar 12, 2027
Skills
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS)
- Life Sciences
Description
The Companion Diagnostics group is at the forefront of oncology research, generating high volumes of biomarker datasets that drive efficacy subgroup analyses for critical clinical programs. We are seeking a dedicated Quality Assurance Data Analyst to join our team in Rahway, NJ. In this role, you will act as a guardian of data integrity, reviewing large-scale genomic and NGS datasets within our clinical database repository. You will be responsible for identifying quality events and collaborating with a diverse network of internal and external stakeholders to resolve technical discrepancies. This is a high-impact opportunity for a scientifically-minded data professional to ensure the accuracy of the information used to develop life-saving cancer treatments.
Responsibilities
- Data Quality Oversight: Review and audit high-volume biomarker, NGS, and genomic datasets to ensure accuracy and readiness for clinical efficacy analyses.
- Issue Identification: Analyze large datasets to identify "quality events" or discrepancies and navigate complex technical or operational problems to find resolutions.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Partner frequently with internal departments and external vendors to understand data structures and resolve identified quality issues.
- Reporting & Documentation: Review quality assurance reports and provide clear feedback to the Companion Diagnostics group regarding data health and status.
- Process Administration: Execute data decisions guided by established policies and business plans, while consulting with leadership on high-level strategic choices.
- Technical Problem Solving: Identify and resolve complex technical hurdles within the clinical database repository to streamline data flow.
- Communication: Explain difficult data concepts to non-technical stakeholders, ensuring a shared understanding of data quality and accountability.
- Tool Utilization: Leverage advanced Excel skills and general scientific knowledge to manage and interpret large-scale biomarker information.
Education
- Bachelor’s Degree: Required in Life Sciences or a related scientific field.
- Advanced Degrees: Master’s or PhD in a related field will also be considered.
Experience
- Bachelor’s (BS): Minimum of 5 years of related experience.
- Master’s (MS): Minimum of 3 years of related experience.
- PhD: Minimum of 1 year of related experience.
- Technical Skills: Proven experience managing and performing QA on large datasets, specifically in NGS, Genomics, or Biomarkers.
- Software Proficiency: Strong Excel skills are required; advanced Excel (macros, pivot tables, complex formulas) is highly preferred.
- Industry Context: Pharmaceutical industry experience is preferred but not required; a background in biomarkers is a significant advantage.
Additional Information
- Work Location: Rahway, NJ.
- Work Model: Hybrid (a mix of on-site and off-site work can be accommodated).
- Duration: Candidate must be available to work full-time for a 12-month contract from the date of hire.
- Key Attributes: Must be capable of working independently, demonstrating high accountability, and communicating complex information effectively.