Principal Scientist Kilo-Lab

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is seeking an experienced Process Development chemist to lead a newly expanded non-GMP kilo-lab in Boston. In this lab-based position, you will be responsible for the planning and execution of hundred-gram scale to multi-kilo scale chemistry to deliver non-GMP toxicology batches as well as demonstration batches for later phases of development. This position will also work closely with the GMP facilities to tech transfer processes for first in human (FIH) studies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Undertake experimental synthetic work in a large-scale laboratory (up to 100 L) to deliver non-GMP material for internal customers
• Lead one or more kilo lab assistants and coordinate campaigns within the kilo laboratory. The successful candidate will be able to mentor and organize others while being a figurehead for the delivery of chemistry
• Work with the Process Chemistry team lead to coordinate scheduling and make deliverable commitments to customers
• Display personal ownership of the kilo lab facility, taking a pride in housekeeping, ensuring operational readiness, and seeking to maximize occupancy and productivity
• Mentor and/or train colleagues of a variety of experience levels in kilo lab operation, including Process Safety fundamentals. Contribute to the knowledge base within the wider Process Chemistry team
• Work as part of the Process Chemistry team to devise new syntheses of pharmaceutical candidates and to develop process understanding thereof
• Manage outsourced work packages, both to secure supplies of starting materials for the kilo lab and as part of workload sharing within the wider team

Knowledge and Skills:

• Background in synthetic organic chemistry and strong industrial experience in Process Chemistry or Contract Manufacturing
• Experience of small molecule synthesis on kilo scale
• Display knowledge of the sourcing, maintenance, assembly, and operation of equipment required to conduct synthetic chemistry on scales from 20L to 50L
• Awareness of the potential hazards posed by large scale chemistry
• Ability to work to deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Exhibit excellent scientific communication skills (written and oral)
• Display a flexible approach and be comfortable working on a variety of scales
• Passionate about hands-on delivery of chemistry and committed to career growth within an experimental role

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering with 4-7+ years of experience within a pharmaceutical R&D company or a CRO, MS (7+) or B.S. (10+) is required. Individuals with fewer years of experience are also encouraged to apply
• Practical experience in data collection for Process Safety assessment, eg DSC or TSU
• Experience of following Hazard Assessment workflows and interfacing with Process Safety experts
• Skills in Analytical Chemistry, particularly HPLC/UPLC, and of working with Analytical Chemistry colleagues within a regulated framework
• Experience of the relationship between a Pharmaceutical R&D company and CROs/CMOs, from either perspective

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

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