Analytical Development Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals LLC; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 103,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity awards

On-site role

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Vertex is seeking a talented analytical chemist to join our Analytical Development group in Boston, MA. You will conduct analytical testing, interpret complex data, and present findings to guide project decisions, while independently designing challenging experiments with high reliability.

Responsibilities include supporting method validation per ICH/FDA guidelines, collaborating across teams, and mentoring junior staff as needed in a fast-paced, GMP-driven environment.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in the life or physical sciences with a focus on analytical chemistry.
• PhD with 0-3 years or MS with 3+ years or BS with 6+ years of relevant analytical development experience.
• Experience with HPLC, GC, KF and broad pharmaceutical analysis techniques.
• Good GMP understanding; hands-on GMP experience and GMP-friendly method development.

Responsibilities

• Analytical testing and data review with interpretation and presentation to guide project decisions.
• Design and perform technically challenging experiments with high reliability.
• Support method validation activities following ICH and FDA guidelines.
• Represent Analytical Development on cross-functional teams.

Skills

HPLC

GC

KF

GMP knowledge

Data interpretation

Collaboration

Education

BS/MS/PhD in life or physical sciences with analytical chemistry

Tools

HPLC system

GC system

KF instrument

ICH/FDA guidelines tooling

Job description

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is seeking a talented individual to join our Analytical Development group in Boston, MA. As a member of an industry leading CMC team, this individual will help advance transformative medicines treating the underlying cause of serious diseases by conducting analytical chemistry activities for small molecule development programs. Responsibilities include characterization and stability assessment of drug substances, spray-dried dispersions, and drug products, as well as contributing scientifically to the resolution of broader drug development challenges in collaboration with other R&D functions. Expertise with laboratory techniques commonly used in the analysis of pharmaceutical products, including liquid chromatography (LC), is desired.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Analytical testing and data review, as well as collation, interpretation, and presentation of complex data along with recommendations to guide project decisions and new research activities
• Independently designing and performing technically challenging experiments in a resourceful manner with a high degree of reliability and attention to details
• Solving complex problems to support crucial project goals, as well as innovation of research methodology to address important questions enabling the advancement of development programs
• Supporting method validation activities, including designing validation protocols that follow ICH and FDA guidelines and address critical factors that may not be mandated by the guidelines but are essential for validating the methods for their intended use
• Representing Analytical Development on cross functional pharmaceutical development teams
• Prioritizing studies, considering feasibility, timelines, and project impact
• Troubleshooting and maintain general lab equipment, including LCs
• Maintaining accurate records of experiments and results in an electronic laboratory notebook in a timely manner
• Working collaboratively cross-functionally and within the team to achieve program goals
• Complying with applicable SOPs
• May supervise or mentor junior staff

Knowledge and Skills:

• Understanding of the drug development process, including chemical and formulation development
• Skilled in HPLC, GC, KF, and broad knowledge of other techniques used in pharmaceutical analysis
• Good understanding of GMP is preferred. Hands-on GMP experience, as well as experience developing GMP friendly methods is a plus
• The ability to work successfully in both a team/matrix environment as well as independently is required
• The ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage priorities, and maintain timelines for multiple activities are required
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential

Education and Experience:

• A BS, Master’s degree or Ph.D. in the life or physical sciences with a preference for a concentration in analytical chemistry
• Minimum experience: Ph.D. with 0-3 years or MS with 3+ years or BS with 6+ years of relevant analytical development experience

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$102,800 - $154,200

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.

#LI-Onsite

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.