Senior Research Scientist – Targeted LNP Delivery (Discovery) Full-time

Senior Scientist

We are seeking an innovative and highly motivated Senior Scientist to lead discovery-stage development of targeted lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platforms. This role will drive receptor target identification and validation, establish high-throughput ligand conjugation workflows, and develop scalable assay systems to enable systematic screening of targeted LNP constructs.

The successful candidate will build a modular, data-driven targeting engine capable of evaluating single and multi-ligand strategies across multiple cell types and therapeutic indications. This is an onsite position in San Diego.

Key Responsibilities:

Receptor Target Identification & Validation

• Identify and prioritize cell-surface receptor targets aligned with disease biology and delivery feasibility.
• Integrate transcriptomic, proteomic, and functional datasets to support receptor selection.
• Evaluate receptor expression levels, internalization kinetics, and trafficking behavior.
• Develop a structured receptor-selection framework to guide targeted LNP programs.

High-Throughput LNP-Ligand Conjugation

Design and implement scalable LNP–ligand conjugation workflows using chemical and affinity-based strategies.

Develop high-throughput systems capable of screening:

• Single ligands across multiple densities
• Multiple ligands in parallel
• Combinatorial or dual-ligand constructs

Establish quantitative methods for measuring conjugation efficiency, ligand density, and stability.

Compare and optimize chemical versus affinity-based conjugation approaches.

Assay Development & Screening

Develop and execute robust in vitro assays to assess:

• Cellular uptake
• Payload delivery efficiency
• Target specificity
• Functional biological response
• Early safety assessments

Establish high-throughput screening workflows capable of evaluating 30–50+ targeted constructs per campaign.

Define quantitative performance metrics for ligand and construct prioritization.

LNP Development (Collaborative)

• Partner with chemistry, formulation, high-throughput and safety scientists to develop core LNP and to integrate targeting strategies into their design
• Support iterative refinement to maximize delivery performance.
• Collaborate with biology and translational teams to align with therapeutic objectives.
• Contribute to intellectual property and long-term platform differentiation strategies.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience identifying and validating receptor targets for drug delivery applications.
• Working knowledge of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation principles, including particle characterization and structure–function relationships.
• Prior experience developing cell-targeted LNP platforms.
• Expertise in biochemical conjugation strategies (click chemistry, maleimide, NHS ester, thiol chemistry, affinity-based systems).
• Experience with analytical characterization methods (LC-MS, HPLC, DLS, flow cytometry, ELISA).
• Familiarity with multivalent targeting and avidity-driven delivery strategies.
• Demonstrated experience in assay development and high-throughput screening.
• Strong experimental design and data interpretation skills.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 8+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range: $121,600 – $182,400

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.

On-Site Designated

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.

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.