Senior Research Scientist, Structural Biology & Biophysics

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated; Boston, Auburn (MA, ME); On-site; USD 116,000 - 174,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join their Structural Biology and Biophysics group. This role is pivotal in advancing drug discovery efforts through the application of biophysical methods. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in protein science and biophysical techniques, coupled with excellent communication and collaboration skills. In this lab-based position, you will design and execute experiments that provide critical insights for drug design, making a significant impact on the development of transformative medicines. Join a team that values scientific innovation and collaboration in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Medical benefits

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

Generous paid time off

Educational assistance programs

Student loan repayment

Commuting subsidy

401(k) plan

Annual bonus eligibility

Annual equity awards

Qualifications

• Experience in biophysical methods for drug design and drug discovery.
• Strong publication record in relevant scientific literature.
• Ability to develop and execute biophysical assays.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute biophysical experiments for molecular design.
• Conduct ligand binding studies using SPR and other methods.
• Prepare samples and report results in organized manner.

Skills

Biophysical methods for drug design

Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR)

Protein science

Drug discovery

Communication skills

Collaboration

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR)

Thermal Shift Analysis (TSA)

Microscale Thermophoresis (MST)

Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC)

Education

Ph.D. in biological science

Masters Degree in biological science

Bachelors Degree in biological science

Job description

Job Description

General Summary:

The Structural Biology and Biophysics group at Vertex Pharmaceuticals is responsible for generating reagents as well as biophysical and structural information that is critical for the advancement of research programs to create transformative medicines for patients with serious diseases. The group is seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Senior Research Scientist with significant experience utilizing biophysical methods for drug design to guide these efforts. The ideal candidate for this lab-based role will possess excellent technical skills in sample handling for biophysical studies of small molecule ligand binding and experience with protein science, a proven track record in drug discovery, strong communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with members of an interdisciplinary project team.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work within drug discovery project teams to design, and execute biophysical experiments that answer key questions that aid in molecular design
• Develop, execute, and interpret ligand binding studies using primarily Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and potentially other orthogonal biophysical methods.
• Design and generation of reagents for biophysical studies
• Sample preparation, execution of experiments, and organized reporting of results
• Keep up to date with the scientific literature in the field and beyond
• Actively participate in group and cross-disciplinary project team meetings
• Present results to project teams in a clear and understandable way

Knowledge and Skills:

• Experience working with integrated drug discovery teams utilizing structure-based drug design
• Experience in SPR plus additional biophysical techniques such as: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), Thermal Shift Analysis (TSA), Spectral Shift/Temperature Related Intensity Change (TRIC), Microscale Thermophoresis (MST) and Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC)
• Understanding and applying biophysical and structural methods to drug discovery
• Ability to develop and execute biophysical assays to measure ligand binding
• Track record of productivity as evidenced by a strong publication record
• Self-motivation, organization, and ability to communicate effectively with project teams

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in biological science and 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological science and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological science and 8+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range:

$116,000 - $174,000

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.

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]