Process Chemistry Co-op: Innovate, Scale & Learn

Vertex Pharmaceuticals LLC; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Gym access

Commuter benefits

Free meals

Job summary

Vertex Process Chemistry is seeking a highly motivated co-op student to join our team in January 2027. The co-op will apply their chemistry knowledge to develop scalable processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients under supervision.

The role offers hands-on training in advanced techniques, collaboration across chemists and engineers, and exposure to data analysis, reporting, and presentations within a fast-paced biotech environment at Vertex in Boston.

Qualifications

• Current students pursuing a degree in chemistry-related fields with strong lab interest.
• Completion of organic chemistry coursework and labs is required.
• Ability to work safely and collaboratively in a lab environment.
• Interest in synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and pharma development.
• Experience with analytical techniques and literature research is valued.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• US work authorization; no sponsorship provided for internships.
• Must be enrolled in an advanced degree if graduating before May 2027.
• Available for full-time commitment (40 hours/week) Jan–July 2027.

Responsibilities

• Train in advanced lab techniques (flow chemistry, photochemistry, DoE, Bayesian optimization).
• Collaborate with chemists and engineers to design experiments.
• Apply lab techniques to synthesize complex organics as per plan.
• Maintain a detailed electronic lab notebook.
• Evaluate optimization for photoredox catalysis.
• Develop substrate scope and study reaction kinetics.
• Use literature to guide design and interpret results.
• Present progress to project team and deliver a final summary.

Skills

Synthesis chemistry interest

Lab safety and independence

Documentation and communication

Internship/research experience

Analytical techniques familiarity

Literature/search skills

Data interpretation capability

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Engineering or related field

Third-year undergrad or higher at start

Organic chemistry coursework and labs completed

US work authorization (no sponsorship)

Enrolled in advanced degree if graduating before May 2027

Available full-time Jan–Jul 2027

Job description

Vertex Process Chemistry is seeking a highly motivated co-op student to join our team in January 2027. The co-op will apply their chemistry knowledge to develop scalable processes for active pharmaceutical ingredients under supervision.

The role offers hands-on training in advanced techniques, collaboration across chemists and engineers, and exposure to data analysis, reporting, and presentations within a fast-paced biotech environment at Vertex in Boston.