Analytical Development Senior Scientist

Job Description

General Summary

Vertex is seeking a Senior Research Scientist to join Analytical Development in Boston, MA. This role supports the advancement of transformative medicines by leading analytical chemistry activities across all stages of clinical development. The position is part of the Chromatography Subject Matter Expert (SME) team, focused on small molecules and synthetic peptides/oligonucleotides, with particular emphasis on drug substance, drug product intermediates, and drug product.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead chromatographic method development, qualification, and validation activities.
• Partner with cross-functional project teams to design, oversee, and review analytical methods, validation protocols, and reports.
• Serve as a technical expert in chromatographic instrumentation and method development, including specialized detectors, column screening, forced degradation, and robustness studies.
• Drive continuous improvement in phase-appropriate analytical development and validation practices.
• Ensure consistent, compliant method development and validation practices across the organization.
• Design and execute complex, technically challenging experiments that support departmental and project goals.
• Interpret data, draw evidence-based conclusions, and assess broader implications of findings.
• Develop innovative solutions to technical challenges and provide scientific guidance to team members when needed.
• Contribute meaningfully to project strategy and critical scientific activities within the discipline.
• Help build organizational capability through staff training, mentorship, and knowledge sharing.
• Apply concepts or approaches from other fields to advance scientific progress.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep experience in analytical method development and validation.
• Strong technical expertise in chromatography and related analytical techniques, including GC, LC, GC-MS, LC-MS, Karl Fischer, and spectroscopy.
• Proven ability in troubleshooting, data review, and interpretation.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical industry regulations, guidelines, and GMP practices.
• Excellent organizational, project management, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to explain technical concepts clearly and influence diverse stakeholders.
• Effective in both team-based/matrix environments and independent work.
• Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining timelines and quality.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor others, advance projects through scientific insight, and identify productive new experimental approaches.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. with 2+ years or Master’s degree with 5+ years of relevant analytical development experience.
• Exceptional candidates with a B.S. degree with 8+ years of advanced industry experience will also be considered.

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:

$122,400 - $183,600

Disclosure Statement:

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.

#LI-Onsite

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