R&D Officers

Meril is seeking highly motivated and enthusiastic R&D Officers to join our research and development team. As an entry-level professional, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects, contribute to the development of innovative products, and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

As a R&D Officer at Meril, you will be responsible for supporting the research and development of new medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and other innovative products. Your primary focus will be on assisting senior researchers and scientists in designing, developing, and testing new products, as well as evaluating their performance and safety.

The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in biomedical engineering, medical research, or a related field, with a passion for developing innovative solutions to real-world problems. You will be working in a team-oriented environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams, including engineers, scientists, and clinicians, to identify and address research gaps, design and develop new products, and bring them to market.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist senior researchers and scientists in designing, developing, and testing new products, including medical devices, diagnostic equipment, and biomedical instruments
• Conduct literature reviews, data analysis, and experimental design to support research projects
• Collaborate with engineers and scientists to develop and test prototypes, and evaluate their performance and safety
• Assist in the preparation of research reports, technical documents, and regulatory submissions
• Participate in laboratory activities, including setting up and maintaining equipment, preparing samples, and conducting experiments
• Contribute to the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
• Collaborate with clinicians and other stakeholders to identify research gaps, design and develop new products, and evaluate their effectiveness

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Medical Research, Biotechnology, or a related field
• 0-2 years of experience in research and development, preferably in a medical device or biotechnology company
• Strong knowledge of biomedical engineering principles, medical research methods, and regulatory requirements
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment, with a strong focus on collaboration and innovation
• Familiarity with laboratory equipment, software, and tools, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, and scientific software

Nice to Have:

• Master's degree in Biomedical Engineering, Medical Research, Biotechnology, or a related field
• Experience with design and development of medical devices, diagnostic equipment, or biomedical instruments
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements, including FDA, CE, and ISO standards
• Familiarity with programming languages, such as Python, MATLAB, or R

What We Offer:

• A dynamic and innovative work environment with a team of experienced professionals
• Opportunities for professional growth and career development
• Collaborative and cross-functional teams, with a focus on innovation and excellence
• State-of-the-art laboratory facilities and equipment
• Competitive salary and benefits package

Meril is a leading company in the medical device and biotechnology industry, with a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Our team of experts is dedicated to developing cutting-edge products and solutions that improve human health and well-being. If you are a motivated and enthusiastic individual with a passion for research and development, we encourage you to explore this exciting opportunity.

Qualification for R&D Officers at Meril

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Chemistry from a recognized university.
• Degree should be completed with a minimum aggregate score of 60% or equivalent CGPA.
• Relevant academic projects and research work during the course are highly preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Familiarity with laboratory equipment and techniques, such as HPLC, GC, spectroscopy, and chromatography.
• Basic knowledge of computer software, such as Microsoft Office, and willingness to learn laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Understanding of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) is an added advantage.

Research and Development Skills:

• Strong foundation in research and development principles, with a keen interest in innovation and experimentation.
• Ability to design, develop, and execute experiments to achieve research objectives.
• Familiarity with data analysis and interpretation, with a focus on accuracy and precision.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills:

• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze complex data and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Effective problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify and troubleshoot issues in a laboratory setting.
• Willingness to learn and adopt new techniques and technologies.

Communication and Teamwork:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research findings and ideas clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, with a focus on achieving shared goals and objectives.

Regulatory and Compliance:

• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and guidelines, such as ICH, FDA, and WHO.
• Understanding of laboratory safety and waste management protocols.
• Willingness to comply with company policies and procedures.

Meril Specific Requirements:

• Familiarity with Meril's products and services, such as pharmaceuticals and medical devices.
• Understanding of the company's research and development goals and objectives.
• Willingness to contribute to a fast-paced and dynamic research and development environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with laboratory automation and software, such as robotic systems and data management systems.
• Knowledge of statistical analysis and data visualization tools, such as R or Python.
• Familiarity with quality control and quality assurance principles.

Certifications and Training:

• Certification in laboratory safety, such as OSHA or equivalent.
• Training in laboratory techniques, such as HPLC or GC.
• Willingness to undergo training and development programs to enhance skills and knowledge.

Language and Cultural Requirements:

• Fluency in English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with Indian culture and regulatory environment.

Physical and Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to work in a laboratory environment, with exposure to chemicals and biological agents.
• Willingness to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow laboratory safety protocols.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, with flexibility to work varied shifts.

Meril's Work Environment:

• Meril is committed to providing a work environment that is safe, healthy, and free from harassment and discrimination.
• The company values diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from qualified candidates.

What We Offer:

• A comprehensive training and development program to enhance skills and knowledge.
• A dynamic and fast-paced research and development environment.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.

• Develop and implement research plans to drive innovation and growth in Meril's product portfolio as a Research and Development (R&D) Officer, focusing on early-stage research and development of new medical devices and technologies.
• Conduct literature reviews, market research, and competitor analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and challenges in the medical device industry, informing R&D strategy and decision-making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance, to ensure seamless integration of new product developments and to identify potential design and development issues early on.
• Design, develop, and test prototypes of new medical devices, using computer-aided design (CAD) software and other engineering tools to create detailed designs and models.
• Develop and execute experiments to test the safety, efficacy, and performance of new products, using a range of testing methods, including in vitro and in vivo testing.
• Analyze and interpret data from experiments, using statistical methods and data analysis software to identify trends and patterns, and to inform product development decisions.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation of research and development activities, including reports, protocols, and study plans, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Collaborate with regulatory affairs team to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and standards, such as FDA, CE marking, and ISO 13485, and to prepare regulatory submissions and dossiers.
• Participate in design control and risk management activities, including identification and mitigation of potential risks, and implementation of design controls and risk management strategies.
• Develop and maintain relationships with external partners, including research institutions, universities, and suppliers, to stay up-to-date with the latest research and technologies, and to identify potential collaboration opportunities.
• Stay current with industry developments, trends, and emerging technologies, attending conferences, seminars, and workshops, and participating in online forums and discussion groups.
• Contribute to the development of intellectual property, including patents and trademarks, to protect Meril's innovations and products.
• Work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, prioritizing tasks and managing multiple projects simultaneously, to meet deadlines and deliver results.
• Develop and implement quality control processes to ensure that products meet required standards, and to identify and address any quality issues that may arise.
• Collaborate with the quality assurance team to ensure that all products are manufactured in accordance with established quality systems and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities for process improvements and implementing changes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and product quality.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to ensure that all tasks are performed consistently and in accordance with established protocols.
• Utilize project management tools, such as Gantt charts and project plans, to track progress, identify potential issues, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Develop and maintain effective communication channels with stakeholders, including project sponsors, team members, and external partners, to ensure that all parties are informed and aligned.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks and issues that may impact project timelines, budgets, or product quality, and develop contingency plans to address any issues that may arise.
• Develop and implement training programs to ensure that all team members have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively.
• Participate in knowledge management activities, including the development and maintenance of a knowledge management system, to ensure that all knowledge and expertise are captured and retained.
• Collaborate with the business development team to identify new business opportunities and to develop strategies to drive growth and expansion.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, and partners, to ensure that Meril's products and services meet their needs and expectations.
• Utilize skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and project management to drive innovation and growth in Meril's product portfolio.
• Apply knowledge of medical device regulations, quality systems, and industry standards to ensure that all products are developed and manufactured in accordance with relevant requirements.
• Work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive innovation and growth in Meril's product portfolio.
• Strong understanding of Design Control, Risk Management and Quality Systems.
• Experience with product development, testing and validation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Experience with project management tools and software.
• Basic knowledge of medical device industry.
• Knowledge of MS office and CAD software.

• Initial Resume Screening

• HR team reviews academic credentials (B.Tech/M.Sc. in Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or related fields) with a focus on GPA ≥ 7.0/10.

• Preference given to candidates with project work or internships in product development, formulation, or prototype testing.

• Any publications, patents, or conference presentations related to medical device or pharmaceutical R&D are flagged for further consideration.

• Technical Aptitude Test (Online)

• Conducted via Meril’s secure testing portal; timed at 90 minutes.

• Sections include:

  • Fundamentals of Materials & Biomaterials – multiple‑choice questions on polymer behavior, biocompatibility, and degradation mechanisms.
  • Analytical Techniques – questions on spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy, with scenario‑based problem solving.
  • Data Interpretation – short‑answer items requiring analysis of experimental data sets (e.g., stress‑strain curves, dissolution profiles).
  • Logical Reasoning & Numerical Ability – quantitative problems reflecting typical R&D calculations (e.g., molar mass, concentration, yield).

• Scoring threshold set at 70 % for progression; top‑scoring candidates receive priority for the next round.

• HR Telephonic Screening

• 20‑minute call with HR Business Partner based in Gujarat.

• Topics covered:

  • Motivation for joining Meril’s R&D division and alignment with the company’s mission of affordable healthcare innovation.
  • Availability for on‑site training at the Vadodara R&D hub and willingness to travel for field trials.
  • Verification of eligibility to work in India and any notice period constraints.

• Behavioral questions probe teamwork experiences, handling of ambiguous data, and adherence to regulatory standards (ISO 13485, CDSCO).

• Technical Interview – Panel (In‑Person/Virtual)

• Conducted by senior R&D scientists and the R&D Manager.

• Structure:

  • Project Deep‑Dive – candidate presents a recent academic or internship project (max 10 minutes) focusing on hypothesis formulation, experimental design, results, and learnings.
  • Problem‑Solving Exercise – live case study where the candidate must design a formulation for a low‑cost wound dressing, considering material selection, sterilization method, and cost constraints.
  • Regulatory & Quality Discussion – questions on documentation practices, validation protocols, and risk assessment (FMEA).
  • Technical Knowledge Check – targeted queries on polymer processing, drug‑device combination products, and scale‑up considerations.

• Panel evaluates depth of technical understanding, communication clarity, and ability to think on the spot.

• Practical Assessment / Lab Simulation

• Conducted at Meril’s Gujarat R&D facility (or a virtual lab simulation platform).

• Candidate receives a brief experimental brief (e.g., prepare a hydrogel prototype with specified mechanical properties).

• Tasks include:

  • Selecting appropriate raw materials and justifying choices based on biocompatibility data.
  • Drafting a concise SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) with safety measures.
  • Interpreting a set of raw data (e.g., viscosity measurements) and proposing next steps.

• Assessment criteria: accuracy, adherence to safety protocols, documentation quality, and time management.

• Cultural Fit & Leadership Potential Interview

• Led by the HR Head and a senior R&D leader.

• Focus on Meril’s core values: Innovation, Integrity, Customer‑Centricity, and Teamwork.

• Questions explore:

  • Past experiences where the candidate championed an innovative idea despite resource constraints.
  • Handling ethical dilemmas in research (e.g., data integrity, conflict of interest).
  • Ability to mentor junior interns or collaborate across cross‑functional teams (marketing, regulatory, manufacturing).

• Assessment of long‑term growth potential and alignment with Meril’s vision of “making healthcare accessible.”

• Final Review & Offer Decision

• Consolidated scorecard compiled from all previous stages; each stage weighted (Technical Test 30 %, Panel Interview 30 %, Lab Assessment 20 %, HR Fit 20 %).

• R&D Manager and HR Business Partner meet to discuss any red flags and confirm candidate suitability.

• Background verification (education, prior employment, and any patent filings) initiated before formal offer issuance.

How to Prepare Effectively for Meril’s R&D Officer Selection Process

• Academic Refresh

• Re‑visit core subjects: polymer science, biomaterials, pharmaceutical formulation, and analytical instrumentation.

• Solve past exam papers or online quizzes focusing on quantitative problem solving (e.g., concentration calculations, kinetic modeling).

• Hands‑On Lab Practice

• Conduct mini‑projects at university labs: synthesize a simple hydrogel, perform FTIR or DSC analysis, and document results in a lab notebook.

• Practice writing SOPs and safety sheets; Meril places high value on clear documentation.

• Familiarize with Meril’s Product Portfolio

• Study Meril’s flagship R&D outputs: low‑cost orthopedic implants, wound care dressings, and diagnostic kits.

• Understand the materials and technologies used (e.g., titanium alloys, biodegradable polymers, lateral flow assay components).

• Regulatory Knowledge

• Review ISO 13485 requirements, Indian medical device regulations (CDSCO), and basic GMP principles.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would incorporate risk management (ISO 14971) into a product development cycle.

• Data Interpretation Skills

• Practice interpreting graphs, tables, and statistical outputs (ANOVA, regression).

• Use software tools like Excel, Origin, or Python (pandas) to analyze sample data sets.

• Mock Technical Interview

• Form a study group with peers; each person presents a past project and fields rapid‑fire questions.

• Record the session to refine clarity, pacing, and technical depth.

• Problem‑Solving Drills

• Work through case studies on cost‑effective product design: consider material cost, manufacturing scalability, and regulatory pathways.

• Develop a structured approach (Define problem → Generate alternatives → Evaluate against constraints → Recommend).

• Behavioral Preparation

• Identify STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that showcase teamwork, integrity, and innovation.

• Align each story with Meril’s values; for example, describe a time you improved a process while maintaining compliance.

• Lab Safety & SOP Mastery

• Review standard lab safety protocols (MSDS, PPE usage, waste disposal).

• Draft a concise SOP for a common R&D task (e.g., preparing a buffer solution) and practice presenting it.

• Physical & Logistical Readiness

• Ensure you can travel to Gujarat for the on‑site lab assessment; arrange accommodation if needed.

• Keep a professional portfolio (digital and printed) with copies of certificates, project summaries, and any patents or publications.

• Mindset & Stress Management

• Practice timed mock tests to build stamina for the 90‑minute aptitude exam.

• Use relaxation techniques (deep breathing, short breaks) to maintain focus during long interview days.

• Networking with Current Meril Employees

• Connect on LinkedIn with R&D staff based in Gujarat; ask about day‑to‑day responsibilities and recent challenges.

• Attend any virtual webinars or industry conferences where Meril presents its latest research; note terminology and trends.

By systematically strengthening technical fundamentals, honing practical lab skills, and aligning personal narratives with Meril’s core values, candidates can confidently navigate each stage of the selection process and demonstrate the readiness required for an entry‑level R&D Officer role in Gujarat.

• Company Overview

• Meril, founded in 1995, is a leading Indian medical‑device manufacturer headquartered in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, with additional production facilities in Vadodara and Rajkot.

• The firm operates under the umbrella of Zydus Cadila and focuses on high‑impact therapeutic areas such as orthopedics, cardiovascular, wound care, and critical care.

• Over 2,200 professionals work across R&D, engineering, manufacturing, quality assurance, and commercial functions, delivering more than 150 product lines to domestic and export markets.

• Strategic Vision & Mission

• Vision: “To be the most trusted partner in improving patient outcomes through innovative medical technologies.”

• Mission: “Design, develop, and deliver cost‑effective, high‑quality medical devices that address unmet clinical needs, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and social responsibility.”

• Product Portfolio & Innovation

• Orthopedic segment includes titanium alloy joint replacement systems, trauma fixation devices, and minimally invasive surgical tools, all compliant with ISO 13485 and CE‑Mark standards.

• Cardiovascular division offers drug‑eluting stents, peripheral vascular balloons, and hemodynamic monitoring solutions, with several products cleared by the US FDA.

• Wound‑care line comprises advanced dressings, negative pressure therapy kits, and bio‑active gels, leveraging proprietary nanofiber technology developed in‑house.

• Critical‑care portfolio features airway management devices, infusion sets, and patient monitoring accessories, designed for both high‑volume hospitals and remote clinics.

• Research & Development Hub

• The R&D centre in Ahmedabad spans 45,000 sq ft, equipped with state‑of‑the‑art prototyping labs, biomechanics testing rigs, and a clean‑room environment meeting Class 100 standards.

• Annually, Merif’s R&D invests roughly 8 % of revenue into new product development, resulting in an average of 12 patents filed per year.

• Collaborative projects with Gujarat Technological University and the Indian Institute of Science focus on bio‑compatible materials, AI‑driven surgical navigation, and 3‑D printed patient‑specific implants.

• Quality & Regulatory Excellence

• All manufacturing sites maintain ISO 13485, ISO 9001, and GMP certifications; the Vadodara plant holds a US FDA 510(k) clearance for its cardiovascular devices.

• A dedicated Quality Management System (QMS) team conducts quarterly internal audits, root‑cause analyses, and corrective‑preventive action (CAPA) cycles, ensuring zero‑defect targets.

• Meril’s post‑market surveillance program includes real‑time device performance dashboards, field safety notices, and a 24‑hour clinical support hotline.

• Workplace Culture & Employee Growth

• A “Innovation First” mindset encourages cross‑functional brainstorming sessions, hackathons, and a quarterly “Idea‑to‑Product” sprint where employees can pitch concepts directly to senior leadership.

• Structured learning pathways include the Meril Academy, offering certifications in Six Sigma Green Belt, regulatory affairs, and advanced biomedical engineering.

• Mentorship circles pair junior engineers with senior scientists, fostering knowledge transfer and career progression; 78 % of participants report accelerated skill development within 12 months.

• Performance reviews are competency‑based, emphasizing collaborative impact, problem‑solving agility, and patient‑centric thinking rather than solely quantitative metrics.

• Employee Well‑Being & Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage includes medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and immediate family members, with on‑site occupational health clinics in each plant.

• Wellness initiatives feature weekly yoga sessions, mindfulness workshops, and a “Fit‑for‑Life” program that subsidizes gym memberships and organizes annual marathon events across Gujarat.

• Flexible work arrangements allow for hybrid schedules in corporate functions, while manufacturing roles benefit from staggered shifts to reduce fatigue and improve work‑life balance.

• Meril’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling, financial planning advice, and legal support services.

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)

• The company’s DEI council drives initiatives such as women‑in‑STEM mentorship, LGBTQ+ awareness training, and accessibility upgrades across all facilities.

• Targeted recruitment drives in Gujarat’s tier‑2 cities have increased representation of local talent, with 32 % of new hires in the past year coming from under‑represented communities.

• Annual DEI audits track gender pay equity, promotion rates, and employee satisfaction, resulting in a 15 % year‑over‑year improvement in inclusion scores.

• Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

• Meril’s “Green Manufacturing” program reduces carbon emissions by 22 % through solar panel installations at the Vadodara plant and waste‑heat recovery systems.

• Water‑conservation initiatives include rainwater harvesting across all sites, providing 40 % of non‑process water needs.

• CSR projects focus on rural healthcare outreach in Gujarat’s Kutch and Saurashtra regions, delivering mobile surgical units, free health camps, and training local health workers on wound‑care management.

• The “Meril Scholar” program funds scholarships for engineering and life‑science students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, with 120 beneficiaries to date.

• Location Advantages – Gujarat

• Situated in Ahmedabad, Meril enjoys proximity to major logistics corridors, including the Delhi‑Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and the Gujarat International Finance Tec‑City (GIFT), facilitating seamless domestic and export supply chains.

• The state’s robust infrastructure—dedicated freight rail lines, a deep‑water port at Mundra, and a network of national highways—ensures rapid distribution of time‑critical medical devices.

• Gujarat’s vibrant ecosystem of biomedical startups, research institutes, and government incentives (such as the Gujarat Biotechnology Policy) provides fertile ground for collaborative innovation.

• Cultural richness, with festivals like Navratri and Uttarayan, creates a lively community atmosphere; Meril’s employee clubs regularly organize cultural events, encouraging team bonding beyond the workplace.

• Leadership & Governance

• The Board of Directors comprises seasoned professionals from pharmaceuticals, medical‑device engineering, and global finance, ensuring strategic alignment with industry best practices.

• A transparent governance framework includes quarterly stakeholder briefings, an independent audit committee, and a whistle‑blower policy that protects employee integrity.

• Leadership’s commitment to ethical sourcing is evident through a supplier code of conduct that mandates compliance with labor standards, environmental regulations, and anti‑corruption measures.

• Future Outlook & Growth Trajectory

• Meril’s roadmap targets a 20 % CAGR over the next five years, driven by expansion into emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and Africa, and the launch of next‑generation smart implant platforms.

• Investment in digital health—integrating IoT sensors into orthopedic devices for remote patient monitoring—positions the company at the forefront of the Industry 4.0 transformation.

• Ongoing collaborations with global OEMs aim to co‑develop hybrid devices that combine Meril’s material expertise with advanced software analytics, opening new revenue streams and enhancing patient outcomes.

• Community & Employee Engagement

• Internal “Innovation Labs” are open‑access spaces where employees can prototype ideas using 3‑D printers, CNC machines, and simulation software, fostering a maker‑culture mindset.

• Volunteer programs encourage staff to participate in local school STEM workshops, health‑awareness drives, and environmental clean‑up initiatives, reinforcing Meril’s role as a responsible corporate citizen.

• Regular “Town‑Hall” forums provide transparent communication channels between senior leadership and staff, allowing real‑time feedback on operational challenges and strategic priorities.

• Recognition & Awards

• Recipient of the “Best Medical Device Manufacturer – India” award by the Indian Medical Device Industry Association (IMDIA) for three consecutive years (2021‑2023).

• Honored with the “Green Factory Excellence” accolade from the Gujarat Pollution Control Board for its sustainable manufacturing practices.

• Recognized as a “Top Employer in Gujarat” by the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce, reflecting high employee satisfaction and retention rates.

These bullet‑point highlights collectively portray Meril as a forward‑thinking, quality‑driven medical‑device organization rooted in Gujarat’s dynamic industrial landscape, offering a robust platform for professional growth, innovation, and societal impact.