Lead Microbiology Scientist for Biologics and Gene Therapy

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 138,000 - 208,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision benefits

Generous paid time off

Student loan repayment assistance

Commuting subsidy

Matching charitable donations

401(k) plan

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a Principal Scientist, Microbiology to act as the microbiology technical leader overseeing methods and microbial control strategies for biologics, cell, and gene therapy programs. You will drive lifecycle management, external lab oversight, investigations, compliance, and continuous improvement to ensure robust, inspection-ready testing globally.

The role requires leadership across method lifecycle, rapid microbiological methods, deviations, change controls, and

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or related with 5+ years of industry experience; MS 8+, or BS 10+ years.

Responsibilities

• Lead microbiology method qualification, validation, transfer, implementation and lifecycle management.
• Oversee external labs, CAPAs, investigations, and compliance risk assessments.
• Support regulatory submissions, health authority interactions, and inspections.
• Collaborate with Regulatory CMC, Quality, Manufacturing, and external partners for lifecycle management.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to scientists across the organization.

Skills

Pharmaceutical microbiology

Microbiology method development

Regulatory submissions

Technical writing

Data analysis

Investigations & CAPA

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD in Microbiology/related

MS in related field

BS with 10+ years experience

Job description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a Principal Scientist, Microbiology to act as the microbiology technical leader overseeing methods and microbial control strategies for biologics, cell, and gene therapy programs. You will drive lifecycle management, external lab oversight, investigations, compliance, and continuous improvement to ensure robust, inspection-ready testing globally.

The role requires leadership across method lifecycle, rapid microbiological methods, deviations, change controls, and