Register Your Interest - MSD UK Industrial Placement Roles 2026

Register Your Interest - MSD UK Industrial Placement Roles 2026

About MSD

MSD, known as Merck & Co., Inc. in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, is a global leader in biopharmaceutical innovation, dedicated to saving and improving lives through groundbreaking medicines and vaccines. Our UK Industrial Placement Programme offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, work on impactful projects, and develop skills in a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive environment. Join us to contribute to life-changing healthcare solutions while building a foundation for your career.

Placement Overview

Our 12-month industrial placement programme is designed for undergraduate students, typically in their penultimate year, seeking practical experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Placements provide real-world exposure to cutting-edge projects, mentorship from industry experts, and opportunities to collaborate across diverse teams. Successful candidates will work in a variety of fields, gaining skills and networks to prepare for future leadership roles.

Available Placement Roles

MSD offers a wide range of placement opportunities across its UK sites, including London, Milton Keynes, Cambridge, and Cramlington. Below are some of the key roles available for 2026:

• Epidemiology Research Assistant Placement: Support research on disease patterns and public health outcomes to inform drug development.
• SE Specialist Intern Placement: Contribute to systems engineering projects, optimizing processes and technologies.
• Machine Learning/Computational Biology Scientist Placement: Apply machine learning to biological data for drug discovery and development.
• Regional Regulatory Operations (EU/EEMEA) Placement: Assist in ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
• Digital Marketing and Data Enablement Placement: Support digital campaigns and data-driven marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement.
• Synthetic and Medicinal Chemistry Placement: Work on the design and synthesis of novel compounds for pharmaceutical applications.
• Computational Chemistry and Molecular Modelling Placement: Use computational tools to model molecular interactions for drug development.
• Digital Marketing Operations Placement: Manage digital marketing platforms and campaigns to support brand initiatives.
• Assay Development Scientist Placement: Develop and validate assays to support drug discovery and testing.
• IT Developer Analyst Placement: Contribute to software development and IT solutions for business-critical applications.
• Quantitative Biosciences Placement: Analyse biological data to support research and development projects.
• Corporate Affairs Placement: Support communications and stakeholder engagement strategies.
• AMS Analyst Placement: Assist in application management services to ensure operational efficiency.
• Biology Placement: Conduct experiments and research in areas such as biologics and immuno-oncology.
• Medical Affairs Placement: Support medical communications and clinical research initiatives.
• Governance, Training, and Patient Engagement Placement: Contribute to governance processes and patient-focused initiatives.
• International Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) Placement: Support regulatory and manufacturing processes for global markets.
• Data & Business Innovation Placement: Drive data-informed strategies to enhance business operations.
• Global Workplace Enterprise Services Placement: Support workplace services and infrastructure projects.
• Governance, Process Assurance, and Foundational Capabilities Placement: Ensure robust governance and process optimization.
• Communications & Policy Associate Placement: Assist in shaping policy and communication strategies.
• Clinical Trial Coordinator Placement: Support the planning and execution of clinical trials.
• Marketing Assistant Placement (Cambridge/Milton Keynes): Contribute to marketing campaigns and brand initiatives.
• Digital Channels Associate Placement: Manage digital platforms to enhance customer engagement.
• Strategic Insights Placement: Analyze market trends and data to inform strategic decisions.
• IT Service and Delivery Management Placement: Support IT service delivery and project management.
• IT Automation Analyst Placement: Develop automation solutions to improve IT operations.
• Junior Artworker Placement: Create visual assets for marketing and communications.
• Test Technician Placement: Support testing and quality assurance for manufacturing processes.

Key Features

• Duration: 12 months, typically starting in August/September 2026.
• Location: London, Milton Keynes, Cambridge, Cramlington, or other MSD UK sites.
• Compensation: Competitive stipend with additional support through mentorship and training.
• Career Development: Gain hands-on experience, interdepartmental exposure, and tailored mentoring from senior leaders.
• Networking: Build connections with top experts, recent graduates, and peers through collaborative projects and events.
• Inclusive Culture: Join a diverse, global workforce committed to innovation and employee well-being.

Eligibility

• Must be enrolled as an undergraduate student for the duration of the placement, typically in your penultimate year of study.
• Relevant degree disciplines include, but are not limited to, Biology, Chemistry, Computer बढे Science, Engineering, Data Science, Business, Marketing, or related fields.
• Strong academic performance, typically a 2:1 or equivalent, with a passion for innovation in healthcare.
• For technical roles (e.g., IT, Machine Learning, Computational Biology), familiarity with tools like Python, R, SQL, or Tableau is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Candidates should demonstrate adaptability, teamwork, and a commitment to MSD’s mission of improving lives.

Application Process

1. Register Your Interest: Submit your details via the RateMyPlacement website to receive updates on when applications open (typically October 2025).
2. Online Application: Complete an application form, including your CV and a tailored cover letter, through MSD’s careers portal or RateMyPlacement.
3. Assessments: Participate in online assessments, which may include numerical, verbal, or technical evaluations.
4. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to virtual or in-person interviews with MSD recruiters and team members.
5. Offer: Successful candidates will receive placement offers and onboarding details.

Note: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early registration is highly recommended. MSD does not accept open applications; all opportunities are posted on the careers website or RateMyPlacement.

Why Choose MSD?

• Global Impact: Contribute to life-saving medicines and vaccines that impact millions worldwide.
• Mentorship & Growth: Receive tailored guidance from industry leaders and access to interdepartmental rotations for skill development.
• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge projects in areas like biologics, data science, and digital transformation.
• Diverse & Inclusive: Join a workplace that values diverse perspectives and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Career Pathways: Gain skills and networks that position you for future roles, with many placements leading to graduate opportunities like the MMLDP or ETR Program.

How to Register

Ready to innovate with MSD? Register your interest now on the RateMyPlacement website to stay updated on application openings and recruitment events. For additional information, visit MSD Careers. For accessibility needs or application queries, contact MSD’s recruitment team via the careers portal.

Join MSD to make a difference in global healthcare while building your career.