Medicinal Chemistry Senior Principal Research Scientist

Job Description

Vertex is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry to provide scientific leadership in the design and optimization of small-molecule therapeutics across discovery programs. This role will play a critical part in advancing high-quality drug candidates from early discovery through candidate selection, while partnering across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex scientific challenges.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished medicinal chemist with deep expertise in small-molecule drug discovery, a strong record of scientific innovation, and demonstrated success in a fast-paced and matrixed research environment. This is an on-site role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead medicinal chemistry strategy for small-molecule discovery programs aligned with portfolio and project objectives.
• Design, prioritize, and guide synthesis of novel compounds to optimize potency, selectivity, pharmacokinetics, and developability.
• Interpret and integrate SAR, structural biology, DMPK, pharmacology, and safety data to drive compound design and progression.
• Partner closely with biology, DMPK, toxicology, and pharmaceutical sciences to advance program goals.
• Provide technical and strategic leadership to internal and external chemistry resources.
• Provide scientific leadership, mentorship, and development support to chemistry team members.
• Communicate program strategy, data, risks, and recommendations to senior leadership and governance teams.
• Support intellectual property strategy in partnership with internal stakeholders.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Medicinal chemistry
• Organic synthesis
• Small-molecule drug discovery
• Lead optimization
• SAR analysis
• Compound design
• Candidate selection
• DMPK/ADME collaboration
• Drug property optimization
• Patent support

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with 6+ years of relevant postdoctoral industry experience; Master’s degree with 9+ years of relevant industry experience; or Bachelor’s degree with 11+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Significant experience in medicinal chemistry and small-molecule drug discovery.
• Demonstrated success advancing discovery programs through candidate selection.
• Experience leading cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams including in matrixed settings.
• Strong communication, strategic thinking, decision-making, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

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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:

$164,400 - $246,600

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.

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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