Pros
I've worked with some of the BEST talent in chemical engineering, analytical research, and process chemistry during my 33+ years at Merck. Merck has a generous benefits package including a defined pension, 401K match, and health benefits. Merck has a 100% tuition assistance program for obtaining advanced degrees. They offer a 2-year PhD program that allows you to go to school full time for two years so you can complete your PhD research thesis. Many rotational assignments are offered so you can move through different working groups and projects to gain "hands on" experience
Cons
Merck has not been a growth comapny for over ten years. It sales and revenues continue to fall. Over the last five years 20,000 employee positions have been cut world wide. With the Merck-Schering Plough Merger (4Q2009) an additional 20% of the combined companies head count will be cut resulting in an additiional 20,000+ staff reductions. More cuts and plant closings are planned for 2010-2011.The drug pipeline is weak with several Phase III Compounds being discontinued and NDA's being withdrawn from FDA review. Several key drugs are coming off patent in 2010 and 2012. Many research jobs and drug production is being shifted to India and China.