Aviran Amir

Experienced R&D leader and technical program manager with a strong track record of organic chemistry synthesis, including organophosphorus compounds and natural compounds. Hands-on leader with deep experience in scientific and technical development, team leadership, technology evaluation, documentation, and collaboration across multiple stakeholders.

Department Head at Merck KGaA (2022-01 – Present)

Responsible for the chemistry and biochemistry R&D operations in Israel, with responsibility for local R&D projects, scientific execution, and team accountability.

• Lead and develop a team of 8 direct reports, maintaining a participative and hands-on management approach.
• Drive major global cross-functional projects in coordination with international teams, project managers, and stakeholders.
• Provide a clear path from development to production including production.
• Support portfolio expansion by identifying new technologies, evaluating scientific opportunities, and building collaborations.
• Strengthen laboratory discipline through structured execution, scientific rigor, and high standards for technical information quality.
• Hands on organic synthesis and formulation.

Principal Scientist - Chemistry Operations Head at Merck KGaA (2016-01 – 2022-12)

Led day-to-day chemistry operations in a multidisciplinary R&D environment with a strong hands-on laboratory and execution focus.

• Managed, coached, and developed scientific staff while balancing workload, priorities, and portfolio support requirements.
• Worked closely with international product managers and development teams to support product and technology development.
• Authored and reviewed SOPs, validation-related protocols, and technical documentation to ensure clarity, consistency, and internal integrity.
• Participated in international ideation groups to assess new technologies, product concepts, and innovation opportunities.
• Built strategic collaborations in Israel and internationally to expand technical capabilities and research impact.

R&D Scientist / Senior Scientist (Technology Scouting) at Sigma-Aldrich (2012-01 – 2016-12)

Combined hands-on R&D experimentation with technology scouting and scientific evaluation of new opportunities.

• Assessed emerging technologies and chemical platforms for fit with R&D priorities, future products, and technical risk considerations.
• Managed product portfolio responsibilities and supported scientific and commercial planning.
• Contributed to innovation and development activities by linking laboratory findings with broader business and portfolio needs.

Academic Instructor & Lecturer Assistant at Bar-Ilan University / Ariel University Center (2003-01 – 2013-12)

• Taught biochemistry and organic chemistry to undergraduate students in classroom and laboratory settings.
• Guided students through organic synthesis laboratories with strong emphasis on experimental accuracy, safety, and protocol compliance.
• Built collaborative relationships with research and industry partners in Israel and internationally.

Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry – Bar-Ilan University (2008-01 – 2013-12)

M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry – Bar-Ilan University (2006-01 – 2008-12)

B.Sc. in Biological Chemistry – Ariel University Center (2003-01 – 2006-12)

Biotechnology Practical Engineer in Biotechnology – Ariel University Center (2002-01 – 2003-12)