Senior Scientist, on the Device Development – Human Factors Team at Merck

Sep 17, 2024

Darian S. James, PhD is a Senior Scientist, on the Device Development – Human Factors Team at Merck. In her role, she is responsible for understanding how intended users of a medical device or combination product (e.g., prefilled syringes, autoinjectors, inhalers, vial + syringe co-packaged together) interact with the device, in order to design and develop a user-interface (e.g., device components, labeling, instructions) that meets the users’ needs and is easy and safe to use.

What is the highest degree you have earned and what can you tell us about your academic path?

The highest degree that I have earned is a Ph.D. My academic path was nonlinear. I earned my B.S. in Nuclear Engineering and my M.S. and Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering. Why the switch you ask? During my freshman year of undergrad at South Carolina State University, one of my closest friends was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, cancer of the bone marrow. Her battle was the catalyst for my interest in studying cancer and other fatal diseases using minimally invasive imaging techniques while in graduate school.

Where do you work now and what is your company about?

I currently work for Merck, a research-intensive biopharmaceutical company that delivers innovative health solutions to prevent and treat diseases in people and animals.

How did you first learn about the company?

I first learned about Merck while browsing on LinkedIn. A few years later, I attended a virtual summit that the company hosted, which showcased the company’s mission and its commitment to its patients and employees.

What do you like most about the company?

Although I joined the company a few months ago, there are so many things that I enjoy. Merck is genuinely committed to putting patients first and addressing unmet medical needs. I love that the company values and invests in its employees, and recognizes the importance of fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging.

What skills make you successful in your role and why did you choose this role?

In my role, the skills that I use the most are being eager to learn, taking initiative, asking for help, saying yes to stretch opportunities, effectively communicating, and paying attention to detail. I chose this role because it was the perfect match for my interests, and the company and team’s values aligned with mine. Additionally, I knew that this was a position that would challenge me, due to the innovative and diverse portfolio, and equip me with the tools to become a subject matter expert in my field.

How do you define success?

Success is the outcome of accomplishing tasks, goals, or objectives and feeling a sense of fulfillment afterwards. I believe there are levels to success and it is more than accolades, recognition, and social media likes or shares. Success is the result of being the best version of yourself every single day and understanding that although your best may look different from day to day, you still showed up for yourself and gave it all that you had. No matter how “small” of an achievement you think something is, you should still acknowledge the wins. Think back to a year ago, are you in a better place than you were then mentally, spiritually, professionally, physically, financially, and/or emotionally? If the answer is yes, that is a win in itself. You are amazing and once you recognize and admit it, others will recognize it too!

What's the most fulfilling aspect of your job?

The most fulfilling aspect of my job is that it does not feel like a job. It is truly fulfilling to work on devices and products that will ultimately reach the hands of patients, caregivers, and medical professionals around the world. I absolutely love advocating for the end user and working with amazing people to improve and save the lives of so many.

What advice do you have for students and job seekers?

As you are looking for jobs it is okay to not quite know exactly what you want to do after finishing school. That means you are in a great position to learn from others. Do not be afraid to leverage your network, including but not limited to mentors, former supervisors, and the SMDP community. Ask your network for feedback on your resume, questions about their career trajectory, and to help you prepare for job interviews. Understand that the currency of academia (i.e., publications, teaching experience) and industry (i.e., relevant experience/skills) are different. If industry is your end goal, look for jobs of interest and see what the job requirements are and what skills are needed. Hone the skills you do have and try to develop some of the required skills you do not have, this will make you more marketable. Lastly, you do not have to meet 100% of the job requirements to apply for a job. Even when you think you are not completely qualified, if you have the bandwidth, apply anyway and let them tell you no. You miss 100% of the shots you do not take.

What book did you read last?

The last book I read was Finding Me: A memoir by Viola Davis.