π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Lead Expert - Scientific Writer
πΉ Company: Merck Specialities Pvt. Ltd.
πΉ Location: Bangalore, Karnataka, India
πΉ Job Type: Full-Time
πΉ Category: Medical Communications
πΉ Date Posted: July 22, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 10+ years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing medical content for various project types and audiences
- Leading content development meetings and reviewing output of less senior writers
- Actively contributing to improvement initiatives across the Global Scientific Communications Content Hub
- Managing relationships with stakeholders and maintaining good relationships within MUs
- Ensuring personal efficiency and productivity targets are met
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of scientific writing expertise and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
π Key Responsibilities
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Developing medical communication content (including publications and congress materials) and medical education content
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Leading concept and content development meetings with authors and other stakeholders
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Reviewing (QA) the output of less senior writers for scientific accuracy, tone, and alignment with agreed strategic messaging
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Maintaining good relationships with stakeholders within MUs
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Ensuring personal efficiency and productivity targets are met and managing workload to meet internal deadlines
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of independence and requires strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: An advanced degree in science, medicine, or another related subject
Experience: 9+ years of professional experience in medical communications, medical affairs, or clinical research in an international Pharma/Biotech/agency setting
Required Skills:
- Proven track record of successful scientific writing and leading projects
- Therapeutic expertise/experience in one or more of the organization's key therapy areas (Oncology, Neurology and Immunology, Fertility, Cardio-metabolic and Endocrinology)
- Demonstrable stakeholder management expertise
- Strong analytical skills and ability to understand complex processes
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills (English language)
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in managing projects cross-functionally and in an international setting
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in a global pharmaceutical company or a similar environment may have an advantage.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: INR 25,00,000 - 35,00,000 per annum (Estimated based on industry standards for a senior-level scientific writer in Bangalore)
Benefits:
- Competitive benefits package
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week), with flexibility for project demands
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is an estimate and may vary based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally)
Founded: 1668 (as Merck & Co., Inc.), 1952 (as Merck KGaA)
Company Description:
- Merck is a leading science and technology company with operations in healthcare, life science, and performance materials
- Merck's portfolio includes innovative products in the areas of Oncology, Neurology and Immunology, Fertility, Cardio-metabolic and Endocrinology
- The company is committed to sustainability and responsible business practices
Company Specialties:
- Pharmaceuticals
- Biopharmaceuticals
- Chemicals
- Performance materials
Company Website: www.merckgroup.com
ASSUMPTION: Merck offers a diverse range of products and services, providing opportunities for candidates to grow and develop within the organization.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Global Scientific Communications Content Hub Manager
Work Arrangement: On-site, with potential for remote work based on project needs
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to take on more responsibilities and advance to a leadership role within the team
- Opportunities to work on high-impact projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Chance to develop expertise in specific therapeutic areas and contribute to the company's overall success
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to expand their skills and advance their career.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Multinational corporation headquarters
Office Location(s): Bengaluru, India
Geographic Context:
- Bengaluru is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka and is known for its tech industry
- The city offers a mix of traditional and modern culture, with a diverse range of dining, entertainment, and recreational options
- Bengaluru has a tropical savanna climate, with warm and humid weather throughout the year
Work Schedule: Standard office hours, with flexibility for project demands
ASSUMPTION: Bengaluru offers a vibrant and dynamic work environment, with a strong focus on innovation and technology.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-depth interviews with hiring managers and team members
- Background check and offer
Key Assessment Areas:
- Scientific writing skills and expertise
- Project management and leadership abilities
- Stakeholder management and communication skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with company values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare examples of your scientific writing work to showcase during the interview
- Research Merck's key therapeutic areas and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these areas
ATS Keywords: Scientific Writing, Medical Communications, Project Management, Stakeholder Management, Analytical Skills, Content Development, Quality Assurance, Team Collaboration, Medical Education, Therapeutic Expertise, Communication Skills, Leadership, International Experience, Research, Clinical Research
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may be competitive, and candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their unique qualifications and fit for the position.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Content management systems (e.g., Veeva, Medtronic)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
- Scientific writing software (e.g., EndNote, Mendeley)
ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies required for this role may vary depending on the projects and teams the candidate works with.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Integrity
- Respect
- Fairness
- Performance
- Innovation
Work Style:
- Collaborative
- Innovative
- Results-driven
- Adaptable
- Detail-oriented
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a proven track record of successful scientific writing and leading projects?
- Are you comfortable working in a collaborative, international environment?
- Do you have strong analytical skills and the ability to understand complex processes?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with Merck's values and work style will be more likely to succeed in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent changes and priorities
- Adapting to a multinational corporation's culture and processes
- Developing expertise in new therapeutic areas or content types
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow in the role.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to other senior-level scientific writing positions in the pharmaceutical industry, but may have more focus on project management and leadership
- Candidates with experience in medical communications agencies may find the role's focus on collaboration and stakeholder management familiar
- This role offers more opportunities for growth and development within a large, multinational organization compared to smaller companies or agencies
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research similar roles in the industry to better understand the market and competition for this type of position.
π Sample Projects
- Developing a comprehensive medical education program for healthcare professionals in a specific therapeutic area
- Leading the creation of a series of publications detailing the results of a Phase III clinical trial
- Managing the development of congress materials, including posters and oral presentations, for an upcoming medical conference
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects are intended to give candidates an idea of the types of tasks they may be responsible for in this role, but the specific projects may vary based on the organization's needs and priorities.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most pressing challenges facing the Global Scientific Communications Content Hub, and how can this role help address them?
- How does this role fit into the broader organization, and what opportunities are there for growth and development?
- What is the team's approach to collaboration and stakeholder management, and how can this role contribute to its success?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days, and how will performance be measured?
- How does the organization support the professional development and growth of its employees?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful questions during the interview process demonstrates a candidate's interest in the role and their commitment to success.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume to highlight your scientific writing experience and relevant skills
- Prepare examples of your scientific writing work to showcase during the interview
- Research Merck's key therapeutic areas and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these areas
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.