Analytical Principal Research Scientist Full-time

Principal Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated and dynamic Principal Research Scientist to join our Dissolution Team within the Formulation Development Department. This role offers a unique opportunity for a driven individual to contribute to the advancement of our scientific capabilities while growing into a leader within the team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific foundation, a passion for learning, and the ability to lead with a sense of urgency and purpose.

As a key member of the Dissolution Team, this individual will play a pivotal role in supporting our drug development efforts, driving innovation, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture. While prior experience in dissolution is beneficial, we are seeking a candidate who demonstrates exceptional leadership potential, a commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and Team Development:

• Lead by example, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the Dissolution Team
• Mentor and guide team members, supporting their professional growth and development
• Actively contribute to creating a positive, inclusive, and high-performing team environment that aligns with Vertex's core values

Scientific Contributions:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, execute, and interpret dissolution studies to support formulation development and regulatory submissions
• Justification of clinically relevant dissolution method parameters and specifications
• Understanding of key analytical deliverables for late-stage programs including method development, validation, specification setting, stability, release testing and analytical strategies to bring these individual items together collectively for a fast-paced program
• Authoring dissolution sections for regulatory submissions
• Designing validation protocols that are in compliance with ICH and FDA guidelines
• Identifying critical factors/parameters that may not be mandated by guidelines but are essential for developing a robust method and validating it for its intended use

Problem Solving and Decision Making:

• Approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset, leveraging critical thinking and scientific expertise to address complex problems
• Engage in constructive debates and discussions to drive data-driven decision-making and achieve optimal outcomes

Continuous Learning and Growth:

• Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in dissolution science and analytical chemistry
• Proactively seek opportunities for professional development and apply new knowledge to enhance team capabilities
• Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth, with a focus on developing leadership skills

Operational Excellence:

• Work with a sense of urgency to meet project timelines and deliver high-quality results
• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines and company policies in all aspects of dissolution testing and reporting
• Contribute to the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices

Knowledge and Skills

• Demonstrated ability to develop solutions to complex problems with creativity and innovation
• Proven teamwork, leadership and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to interact with and influence diverse audiences
• Excellent teamwork, verbal and written communication skills

Education and Experience

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Pharmaceutical Chemistry and 4-7 years experience, or Master's and 7+ years experience, or Bachelor's and 10+ years experience
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new scientific concepts and techniques
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to foster collaboration and build relationships across teams
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire team members, with a desire to grow into a managerial role
• A passion for innovation, problem-solving, and driving results in a fast-paced environment

Pay Range

$140,800 – $211,200

Disclosure Statement

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com.