Job Description

General Summary:

The Material Science Senior Principal Scientist is a self-reliant lab-based position with a proven record of accomplishments, that will support Vertex's drug development programs. They must possess a deep understanding of the relationship between materials properties, pharmaceutical processing conditions, and final product performance and quality attributes. A proven track record of applying in-depth conceptual knowledge of materials science and engineering principles to experimental design and execution is critical. Continuous improvement in materials and process understanding is expected, along with expertise in several relevant areas of materials science.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and implement experiments to discover and characterize all potential solid form development options (polymorphism, salts, co-crystals, amorphous, etc) for drug substances and intermediates.
• Design, validate, and implement advanced characterization techniques and predictive models which connect material properties, pharmaceutical processing conditions, and final product performance in the interest of scaling down process development and streamlining formulation design.
• Represent form discovery group on cross functional teams to discuss solid form options for development and propose and agree a development path forward
• Design and implement tailored solid form evaluation packages to de-risk development of novel drug molecules
• Develops novel solutions to project obstacles and sets new experimental directions
• Makes substantive conceptual contributions to project activities and scientific strategies
• Provides authoritative technical recommendations and troubleshooting within own projects and assisting junior staff with their projects
• Coordinates generation of appropriate work for external publication
• Compiles intellectual property surrounding physical form discovery and understanding

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep understanding of solid form evaluation and decision making within the drug development process.
• Exceptional experimental design, implementation, data reporting and analysis
• Demonstrates advanced judgment, balancing technical feasibility and scientific opportunity
• Demonstrates initiative and ability to capitalize on their own scientific creativity and assist that of team members
• Proven knowledge and experience in chemical/materials engineering and or materials/solids state science and principles
• Demonstrates advanced understanding of solid-state analytical techniques (XRPD, ssNMR, TGA, DSC, DVS, IR, Raman, etc.)
• Ability to function effectively within a dynamic environment
• Track record of successful implementations of innovative solutions
• Ability to plan and manage work performed at external CRO/CMOs
• A superior communicator, demonstrating the ability to write advanced technical documents and demonstrating confidence and versatility in presenting verbally to diverse audiences

Education and Experience:

• PhD in Chemical or Materials engineering or related Materials Science/Chemistry discipline with 6-8+ years of experience
• PhD in Chemical or Materials engineering or related Materials Science/Chemistry discipline with 6-8+ years of experience or the equivalent combination of education and experience with other degree levels
• Master's degree in Chemical or Materials engineering or related Materials Science/Chemistry discipline with 9+ years of experience
• Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Materials engineering or related Materials Science/Chemistry discipline with 11+ years of experience

Pay Range:

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:

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 ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com