Dr. Sayani Das is a Senior Scientist in the Analytical Research & Development division at Merck & Co., Inc., based in Rahway, New Jersey. In this role, she delivers integrated physical and analytical solutions by harnessing innovative technologies to support the progression of Merck’s pharmaceutical pipeline—from early discovery through regulatory submission and commercial launch.
🔹 Guest: Sayani Das, PhD (Senior Scientist, Merck, USA)
🔹 Host: Sreyashree Bose, PhD (Scientist, Lonza, USA)
Welcome to another episode of Career Konnect by Biopatrika! In this insightful interview, we speak with Sayani Das, PhD, who transitioned from pursuing a PhD in India (TIFR) to a postdoctoral fellowship at MIT and is now working as a Senior Scientist at Merck, USA.
🌟 Topics Covered:
✔ Sayani’s academic journey from India to the USA
✔ Research work in chemical biology, molecular imaging, and analytical sciences
✔ Transition from PhD to postdoc and eventually to the biotech industry
✔ Essential technical and soft skills for industry positions
✔ Tips on networking, job applications, and interview preparation
✔ Importance of communication skills in research
If you’re a PhD student or postdoc aspiring to transition into the biotech industry, this video is packed with valuable insights!
📺 Watch Now: https://youtu.be/8xjYeWFdvhA
💬 Comment below if you have any questions for Sayani!
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Full Interview
Academic Background:
- B.Sc. (Chemistry) – Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Integrated M.Sc.-Ph.D. (Chemical Biology and Molecular Imaging) – Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Postdoctoral Associate (Neurochemistry/ Neuroimaging) – Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
Linkedin (Link): https://www.linkedin.com/in/sayani-das-58818386/
Question: Could you tell us a bit about your current position at Merck and where you’re located?
I am currently a Senior Scientist at Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey, USA. I provide analytical support through the application of innovative tools and methodologies. My work plays a key role in advancing Merck’s pharmaceutical pipeline, from early discovery all the way through regulatory submissions and commercial launch.
Career Path and Education
Question: Can you walk us through your academic journey and how it led you to where you are now?
It starts with my schooling in West Bengal, near Darjeeling, where I grew up. After high school, I moved to Kolkata for my undergraduate degree in chemistry at Jadavpur University. After that, I decided to try my hand at the TIFR entrance exam for a PhD program, even before finishing my master’s. I really just wanted to see what the exam was like.
And, to my surprise, I passed the written exam and got called for an interview. And even more surprisingly I was accepted into the PhD program at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) . So I joined TIFR in 2013 after my bachelors.
While completing my PhD at TIFR, Mumbai, India in the field of Chemical Biology and Molecular Biology, I also managed to work on a separate project that became my master’s thesis. So, I have both my master’s and PhD from TIFR. Then, in 2020, after finishing my PhD, I moved to the US for a postdoc at MIT, in Boston. I started that in 2021. And then, as you know, I transitioned to my current role at Merck in 2024.
Question: You mentioned your research was chemistry-heavy. I’m sure our listeners would love to hear a bit about your research topics during your PhD and postdoc and how they connect to your current role?
My PhD was focused on chemical biology and molecular imaging. Basically, I was working at the intersection of chemistry and biology, developing optical tools or probes to study things like metal ions, lipids, and biological processes. Specifically, I spent a lot of time developing fluorescent tools to look at manganese, which is essential for the body, but can cause problems if it’s not properly regulated. Developing manganese sensors is really complex, so there weren’t many out there. That was the challenge that my research team took on. To try to make a water soluble fluorescent sensor. Through that work, I actually ended up serendipitously discovering a really effective mercury sensor. So, it wasn’t the original plan, but I’m glad it happened! Mercury poisoning is a big issue in Southeast Asia, so it’s a very helpful sensor to have. That’s a very short summary of seven years of work!
When I was looking for a postdoc, I wanted to stay in imaging but explore something different from fluorescence, something more clinically relevant. So I joined Dr. Alan Jasanoff’s lab at MIT, which specializes in MRI imaging of the brain. My project focused on studying neurochemicals like dopamine and serotonin using MRI contrast agents. So I was still doing imaging, but using a very different method.
Question: Could you briefly outline your career path since completing your PhD? What were the key steps and decisions that led you to your current position?
As I was nearing the completion of my Ph.D., I was certain that I wanted to pursue a career as a Scientist in the pharmaceutical industry. However, at the time, the limited collaboration between academia and industry in India left me with minimal exposure to the nature of work conducted in the industrial sector, as well as the transition process from academia to industry. To gain broader experience and enhance my skill set, I decided to move abroad to pursue postdoctoral training.
Even before completing my thesis, I had started applying for postdoctoral positions and was fortunate to secure an opportunity in the laboratory of one of the world’s leading experts in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. I accepted the offer primarily because it provided the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a field of imaging complementary to the one I worked on during my Ph.D. Additionally, the position was at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in Boston, a global hub for leading biotech and pharmaceutical companies.
I joined MIT in January 2021 and spent 3 years and 4 months there, not only developing unique and valuable skill sets but also actively networking and building connections with industry professionals. I strongly believe that my time at MIT was instrumental in my professional development and significantly contributed to securing my current role at Merck. The environment fostered both personal and professional growth, providing me with the exposure and network necessary to achieve my career goals.
Question: How important was your PhD in securing your current position? Did it provide you with specific skills or knowledge that were essential for your role?
My academic career has provided me with comprehensive research training and expertise across a diverse range of disciplines, including chemical synthesis, various spectroscopic and analytical techniques, mammalian cell culture, live animal handling, and advanced imaging methodologies. In addition to technical proficiency, I have developed key competencies in generating innovative scientific ideas, managing projects within defined timelines, fostering collaboration, and demonstrating leadership and mentorship.
Both my Ph.D. and postdoctoral experiences have equipped me with a well-rounded blend of technical expertise and behavioral skills. This combination has been instrumental in preparing me for, and ultimately securing, my current role at Merck.
Job Role and Responsibilities
Question: Could you describe a typical workday for you? What are your primary responsibilities and tasks?
A typical workday for me consists of reviewing experiment plans and running them, analyzing data generated from prior experiments, updating electronic lab notebooks to document findings, reviewing project timelines and attending meetings to align on priorities, discuss progress, and address any technical challenges.
My job responsibilities include but not limited to:
- Developing and validating analytical methods.
- Performing solubility and stability studies.
- Supporting formulation development with characterization tools.
- Conducting release and in-process testing, if needed.
- Engaging with cross-functional teams, such as formulation scientists, process chemists, regulatory teams, and quality assurance to align on analytical strategies, data interpretation, and regulatory submission preparation.
Question: What key skills (technical and soft) are essential for your role? How did your PhD help you develop these skills?
Great question! A Senior Scientist in Analytical R&D at Merck (or similar pharmaceutical companies) is expected to have a blend of advanced technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Some of the key technical expertise required are chromatography, spectroscopy (LC-MS, GC-MS, HRMS, NMR, UV/Vis, IR, Raman), dissolution and solid-state characterization (ITC, Tensiometry, thermal analysis, XRPD). During both my Ph.D. and postdoctoral training, I gained extensive hands-on experience with a wide range of analytical techniques, developing a strong technical skill set that has proven invaluable in my current role.
While technical expertise is critical to my work, I have found that soft skills are equally important for success in the pharmaceutical industry. Key soft skills that have greatly contributed to my professional growth include effective communication, the ability to collaborate within cross-functional teams, problem-solving and critical thinking, as well as leadership and mentorship capabilities. Adaptability and flexibility have also been essential, enabling me to navigate complex challenges and shifting priorities.
We often overlook soft skills during our PhDs. If you ask a PhD candidate about their skills, they’ll usually list technical abilities. I did the same thing. But you actually gain a lot of valuable soft skills during your PhD training without even realizing it. Things like presentation skills, communication, CV and cover letter writing, and summarizing complex research into concise statements. For instance, condensing five or six years of PhD work into one or two pages is a skill in itself. Also, working independently on projects, leading them through challenges, and collaborating with others within and outside your lab. All of these things are incredibly important.
My academic research journey not only shaped me into a highly skilled scientist but also equipped me with a broad range of essential soft skills, all of which have been instrumental in my transition to, and success within, the industry.
Question: Do you have any specific tips for our listeners on how to develop those skills, especially for interviews?
I think a lot of it comes from experience. You naturally develop these skills during your PhD because you have to present your work so often—annual presentations, conferences, and so on. But it really starts at home. How you communicate with your family plays a role too.
I was also heavily involved in outreach activities, which really helped. Presenting my research to laypeople, to people with no science background, forced me to explain complex concepts in a simple way. That’s a valuable skill.
Learning how to draw analogies and explain scientific phenomena to a child, for example, really sharpens your communication skills. So, I recommend getting involved in outreach, presenting your work to non-scientists, and even going back to your old school to talk about your research.
Question: What are the biggest challenges and rewards of your job?
One of the biggest challenges in my role is managing multiple projects at various stages of development, often under tight timelines. Balancing competing priorities while consistently delivering high-quality results can be demanding and frequently feels like a race against time. Additionally, keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices requires continuous learning and adaptability.
Despite these challenges, there is immense satisfaction in knowing that my work directly contributes to the development of life-saving medicines and therapies, ultimately improving patient lives around the world. The opportunity to be at the forefront of scientific innovation, applying advanced analytical techniques and technologies in method development and characterization, makes my role both exciting and fulfilling.
In summary, while working as a scientist in the pharmaceutical industry presents significant challenges, it is an incredibly rewarding experience.
Question: How do you balance your work and personal life? What strategies do you use to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
One aspect I truly appreciate about working in the industry, especially at Merck, is the emphasis on structured work hours and work-life balance. We are generally expected to work a standard 40-hour week, and I make a conscious effort to stay within this timeframe. I plan my experiments in advance to minimize delays and ensure that all lab work and meetings are completed efficiently. This allows me to fully engage in my professional responsibilities while still making time for my personal life.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband—whether it’s going for evening walks or cooking meals together. I’m also passionate about dance and try to fit in sessions whenever I can. When I’m feeling stressed, whether it’s work-related or not, a walk outdoors always helps me clear my mind and refocus.
I’m also a very social person and maintain a strong circle of friends. I make it a point to catch up with them regularly, whether it’s over dinner, a movie night, or just casual get-togethers. Maintaining this balance is important to me and helps keep me energized and motivated both personally and professionally.
Visa and Immigration in USA
Question: I noticed you moved from India to the US, and I’m guessing you came on a visa. Could you tell us a bit about your immigration journey? I’m sure many of our listeners are in a similar position, looking to apply for roles like this at Merck.
When I came to the US for my postdoc, I came on a J-1 visa, which is an exchange visitor non-immigrant visa. That’s the typical visa for postdocs in the US. It’s meant for a maximum of five years, with the idea that you’ll gain experience and then return to your home country. If you stay in academia after your postdoc, your university can help you transition to an academic H-1B, which is relatively smooth. But since I wanted to move to industry, I had to look at different options. Because with a J-1, you can’t simply start working in industry right away.
There are two main visas for industry work: the industrial H-1B and the O-1. If you’re on an F-1 or F-1 OPT visa, transitioning to an industrial H-1B is usually pretty straightforward. But because I was on a J-1, that wasn’t an option for me. So Merck helped me with an O-1 visa. The O-1 is also a non-immigrant visa, but it’s for individuals with extraordinary ability. It’s more complex and requires experienced lawyers. That’s why I focused on applying to larger companies, like Merck, because they have the resources and legal teams to handle O-1 applications. If you’re on a J-1, you really need to convince the company that you’re the best candidate.
Once they’re convinced, they’ll handle the O-1 process. There are a lot of criteria for the O-1, which I won’t go into here, but feel free to reach out if you have questions. Their legal team will take care of it, so you don’t need to worry too much.
Question: Speaking of the J-1, I know there’s a residency requirement sometimes. Can you shed some light on that?
The J-1 used to come with a two-year home residency requirement, meaning you had to return to your home country for two years before reapplying for a US visa. But I’m very happy to share that this has recently changed! As of December 2024, the US Department of State removed India from the list of countries requiring this two-year home residency. So, that’s no longer a concern for Indian J-1 holders. You can transition directly without having to go back to India for two years.
Question: You mentioned convincing the company that you were the top candidate. How can our listeners make sure they stand out, especially when transitioning from academia to industry?
That’s a great question, and it’s something I learned through trial and error. There’s no single magic bullet, but one thing I found really important is to highlight the challenges you faced during your research, not just your accomplishments. Employers, especially research-driven companies like Merck, want to see how you handle and overcome obstacles. They’re looking for problem solvers, people who can take on tough challenges and find solutions. So, dedicate time in your presentations to discussing those challenges.
Also, emphasize your ability to work in a team. In academia, you often work independently, but in industry, you’re part of a large team with people from various disciplines. You need to show that you can collaborate effectively and contribute to the team’s goals. So, highlighting your team player skills is essential. Once you have a PhD, they know you can solve problems. They’re more interested in seeing how you handle challenges.
Future Opportunities
Question: What are the potential career paths and opportunities for someone in your position?
I am currently working as a Senior Scientist at Merck. The typical progression from this point follows a scientific track, with opportunities to advance to roles such as Principal Scientist, Senior Principal Scientist, and beyond. This path allows one to remain deeply engaged in scientific problem-solving and innovation.
However, as one moves further along in their career, there is also the option to transition into managerial or leadership roles, depending on personal interests and aspirations. In a Managerial position, the focus shifts from individual scientific contributions to overseeing multiple projects, leading large teams composed of smaller sub-groups, and ensuring alignment across various scientific objectives. Managers play a critical role in driving project execution, supporting their teams in achieving milestones, and navigating the regulatory and strategic aspects of drug development.
Question: What are the current trends and challenges in the biotech industry? How do you see your role evolving in the future?
The biotech and pharmaceutical industry are undergoing a rapid transformation, fueled by technological innovation, evolving regulatory landscapes, dynamic market forces, and a growing emphasis on patient-centric care. Breakthroughs in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), automation, and data analytics are significantly accelerating drug discovery—streamlining lead identification, optimizing clinical trial design, and enhancing the prediction of drug interactions. These advancements are improving R&D efficiency, ultimately reducing both time and costs. Simultaneously, progress in genomics, proteomics, gene editing, cell therapies, and mRNA-based therapeutics is driving a major shift toward personalized medicine. This evolution is especially prominent in areas such as oncology, rare diseases, and neurology, where treatments can now be tailored to the unique genetic profile of each patient—marking a departure from the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach. Pharmaceutical companies are also increasingly recognizing the potential of biologics, expanding their pipelines beyond small molecules to include peptides, monoclonal antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
Looking ahead, I anticipate a continued rise in automated analytical workflows, AI-driven data interpretation, and a growing number of pipeline projects centered around peptides as active pharmaceutical ingredients—trends that I’m excited to be a part of in my current role.
Question: What advice would you give to early-career researchers who are aspiring to work in the biotech industry?
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received during my job search and transition from academia to industry was the importance of networking and mentorship. While developing a strong technical foundation is essential, it’s equally important to invest time in attending career events, connecting with industry professionals, and seeking out mentors whenever possible. These experiences were incredibly beneficial for me, and I would highly recommend them to any aspiring scientist looking to enter the industry.
In addition, it is crucial to continuously work on soft skills, which play a significant role in professional success. Strong communication and presentation skills, leadership qualities, the ability to collaborate effectively within teams as well as being able to work independently are all key attributes that help you stand out and thrive in an industry setting.
Question: Are there any resources, networks, or training programs that helped you in your career that you would recommend?
Absolutely! I’ve had the privilege of participating in several mentorship programs that were truly instrumental in facilitating my transition from academia to industry.
One notable experience was being selected for the Merck Research Award for Underrepresented Chemists of Color. This is a highly competitive program, and as an awardee, I received a year-long mentorship from two Merck scientists, which provided valuable insights into the pharmaceutical industry and played a significant role in shaping my career path. To broaden its reach and impact, the program has been expanded and is now open to all Ph.D. students and postdocs in the US, under the name Merck Next Gen Leaders in Chemistry. Another impactful program was through the American Chemical Society (ACS), where I was matched with a mentor from another pharma industry for a full year. This experience gave me practical guidance and helped me better understand the nuances of industry careers. I was also selected for a mentorship program called Gurukool by STEMPeers, which offers a range of career development initiatives. More details can be found on their website: https://stempeers.org/programs.
In addition to formal programs, I’ve actively used LinkedIn to network with professionals across the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Facebook can be great tools to discover opportunities and connect with mentors—you just need to be proactive and consistent in your search.
Sayani, we’re almost at the end of our podcast, but I wanted to ask if you have one final piece of advice for our listeners who are planning to follow in your footsteps and move into industry.
My one piece of advice is to network and seek mentorship. It’s absolutely crucial. I got this advice when I was starting my job search, and I want to pass it on. Without networking and mentorship from people within the industry, it’s very difficult to transition from academia, especially in the current job market. You’re competing with people who already have industry experience. So, talk to as many people as possible, whether it’s face-to-face or on LinkedIn. Building those connections is key. Great. So, because your last piece of advice was networking, networking and networking. I would highly encourage all our listeners if they want to network and maybe get mentorship from Sayani to please find her on LinkedIn and connect with her.
That brings us to the end of this insightful conversation. Thank you, Sayani, for sharing great insight about everything to transition from academia to industry, especially being an immigrant in USA. We hope this discussion helps our audience gain clarity and inspiration for their own careers. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to BioPatrika for more Career Konnect stories. See you in the next episode!
Looking for guidance on O1 visas or EB1/EB2 Green Card options?
Feel free to reach out to us at scikonnect@gmail.com. We’re happy to discuss your case and connect you with the best possible solutions through our trusted partners.
