Exploratory Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology Sr. Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
paid time off, 401(k)
United States, California, San Diego
11010 Torreyana Road (Show on map)
Apr 07, 2025
Job Description The Exploratory Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology Senior Research Scientist is responsible for formidable experimental productivity, emerging creativity, and versatility. The candidate designs and executes critical experiments for major research projects. Responsibilities of the candidate may include designing and synthesizing chemical substances and/or reagents to evaluate targets, enable understanding of mechanism of action, and advance lead molecules for Vertex diseases in a cross functional team environment. He/She/They are expected to possess a willingness to train others while continuously learning and developing scientifically and as a mentor. This candidate should demonstrate resourcefulness in running multiple activities concurrently and contribute both individually and as a team player. The candidate should have the ability to rapidly adapt to new projects, have a broad perspective and a deep knowledge of related disciplines, and possess diverse project experiences. This is an onsite position at our San Diego research site. Key Duties & Responsibilities Designs and performs critical experiments such as the parallel synthesis and testing of small molecules, lipids, bioconjugates of oligonucleotides and other biomacromolecules. Performs analytical characterization/quantification on chemical substances and evaluates intended biological performances on generated materials Performs complex experimental troubleshooting and methods development Prioritizes individual studies and balances these activities across projects effectively Multitasks and effectively manages efforts on projects Distills complicated, multidimensional data into clear, testable hypotheses while constantly incorporating collective learnings Engages, collaborates, and presents data to a cross disciplinary team from Chemistry, Protein Sciences, High Throughput Biology and Applied Physics Scours relevant scientific literature within and beyond his/her/their related discipline/field Incorporates new principles/concepts and develops new experimental approaches to achieve project goals Actively researches external intellectual property relevant to project(s) and areas of pursuit Contributes substantively to patent and publication preparation as necessary Performs other duties as assigned Knowledge and Skills: Designs and executes complex and challenging Organic Chemistry and Chemical Biology experiments Quickly learns and adopts new concepts, workflow, automation, and utilization of related software/hardware interfaces Demonstrates astute understanding of how to deploy his/her/their own talents most effectively Maintains a broad and deep knowledge of relevant science beyond own discrete field(s) Can multitask various activities while focusing on goals/objectives Productively disseminates his/her/their ideas across discipline(s) and project boundaries Communicates effectively through verbal presentations and writing technical reports Actively solves complex problems which can lead to attaining crucial project goals Education and Experience: Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Chemistry, Chemical Biology or related Biological Sciences with 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral and/or relevant employment experiences, or Master's Degree (or equivalent degree) in Chemistry or related Biological Sciences with >5 years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in Chemistry or related Biological Sciences with >8 years of relevant employment experience. Pay Range: $122,000 - $182,900 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 ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com