Real World Evidence Associate Director

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 174,000 - 262,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. is seeking an RWE Associate Director to leverage epidemiology and real world data to develop observational research across therapeutic areas.

The role leads data sourcing, study tactics, protocol concepts, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to inform regulators, payers, and clinicians. Hybrid/On-site work with mentorship and publications focus.

Qualifications

• PhD preferred or MS/MPH in epidemiology, biostatistics, health economics and outcomes research, or related field.
• Formal graduate training in Epidemiology/Health Services Research required.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in observational research within life sciences or related field.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in RWE/Epidemiology at a biopharmaceutical company.

Responsibilities

• Independently lead focused/targeted research of epidemiology of specific disease areas.
• Lead data sourcing strategy for early development and NH studies.
• Evaluate registries and data sources for endpoints and criteria.
• Consider RWE historical controls and data feasibility.
• Lead execution of approved research tactics within indications.
• Develop protocol concepts for review by internal boards.
• Align RWE tactics with disease program goals.
• Contribute to performance metrics and dashboards for RWE projects.

Skills

RWE regulatory guidance

Observational research design

Interpersonal communication

Study management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD preferred

MS/MPH in epidemiology

Graduate training in Epidemiology/Health Services Research

Job description

Job Description General Summary

The RWE Associate Director is an integral member of the RWE team who leverages expertise in epidemiology and real world data to develop fit-for-purpose observational research, and to inform internal and external stakeholders on natural history (NH) of disease and real world outcomes within their assigned therapeutic area. The RWE Associate Director works cross-functionally to support the execution of observational research across the portfolio.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Independently lead focused/targeted research of epidemiology of specific disease areas, including NH of disease for business development and early development indications
• Lead data sourcing strategy for early development and early clinical indications to support NH of disease needed for regulators, payers, and clinicians
• Lead and execute evaluation of available registries and other data sources related to NH and evidence to support clinical endpoints and inclusion/exclusion criteria
• Determine potential use of RWE historical control within clinical development program and feasibility of obtaining data required for historical control
• Lead execution of approved research tactics within assigned indications
• Develop draft protocol concept and related materials for review and approval by internal scientific review boards
• Working closely with stakeholders, align RWE research study tactics with functional and disease program goals
• Contribute to development of performance metrics and dashboards for RWE projects
• Represent RWE on relevant GMDA Sub-Teams, Program Teams, or Disease Strategy Teams where studies related to RWE are discussed
• Represent RWE on cross-functional collaborations and working groups for pipeline product(s)
• Utilize strong oral communications skills and understanding of Vertex strategies to promote and translate RWD/RWE methods and activities across the company
• Support and facilitate external research collaborations with key academic partners, consortia, and data vendors
• Support the development of cross-functional evidence generation planning
• Provide leadership and mentorship within RWE
• Contribute to company publications strategy via development of conference abstracts, presentations, peer-reviewed manuscripts based on the findings of RWE studies

Knowledge and Skills

• Applied knowledge of relevant RWE regulatory agency guidance and position papers and the opportunities to use RWE to inform regulatory decision making
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute observational research
• Strong and clear interpersonal communication, presentation, and study management skills
• Ability to take detailed observational study results and communicate them in a clear, non-technical manner to internal cross-functional teams, using language that resonates with the teams, while maintaining the integrity of key findings
• Ability to work collaboratively in a constantly changing, diverse, and matrix environment

Education and Experience

• PhD (preferred), or MS/MPH in epidemiology, biostatistics, health economics and outcomes research, or similar required
• Formal graduate training in Epidemiology/Health Services Research required
• Minimum 5 years of experience working in observational research within the life sciences industry or relevant academic, government, or consulting environment
• Minimum 3 years of experience working in RWE and/or Epidemiology at a biopharmaceutical company

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: $174,400 - $261,600. 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: Hybrid-Eligible Or On-Site Eligible

1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or
2. On‑Site: 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 [e-mail].

Help Us Achieve Our Mission: Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases and conditions. The company has approved therapies for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, transfusion‑dependent beta thalassemia, acute pain and acromegaly, and it continues to advance clinical and research programs in these areas. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including IgA nephropathy, neuropathic pain, APOL1‑mediated kidney disease, primary membranous nephropathy, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ACTH‑dependent Cushing’s syndrome, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, generalized myasthenia gravis, and myotonic dystrophy type 1. Vertex was founded in 1989 and has its global headquarters in Boston, with international headquarters in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East.

Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry’s top places to work, including 16 consecutive years on Science magazine’s Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex’s history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.

We believe our culture is one of Vertex’s greatest strengths and a key enabler of our ability to deliver transformative medicines for patients who need them. Rooted in innovation, purpose and collaboration, our culture empowers people to take smart risks, challenge conventional thinking and do their best work. The diversity of our people is central to that culture. By bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, we foster an environment where new ideas thrive, better decisions are made and breakthrough innovation is possible. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, included and connected to our shared mission, because we know that our unique culture and the collective strength of our people are what set Vertex apart.