Formulation Senior Research Scientist

  • Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Full Time

Job Description

General Summary:

The Formulation Senior Research Scientist will work with other scientists dedicated to preclinical formulation - advancing drug candidates from exploratory development through first in human studies using lab based and computational tools to design and select dosage forms and manufacturing processes. This role designs and executes elaborate experiments for pharmaceutical sciences projects and demonstrates resourcefulness in running multiple activities concurrently, all related to achievement of goals/objectives.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Develop dosage forms for preclinical and early clinical use - conduct preformulation activities to enable all nonclinical in vivo studies (pharmacology, pharmacokinetic, and safety)
  • Develop stable and bioavailable formulations for different stages of development (e.g. solution/suspension based formulations, amorphous pharmaceutical systems into solid oral dosage forms, parenterals, etc.) for assessment in preclinical species
  • Design and perform technically challenging experiments in compliance with applicable regulations and SOPs
  • Interpret moderately complicated, multidimensional data and makes recommendations on new processes and development directions
  • Perform advanced experimental troubleshooting and methods development
  • "Multi-task" to effectively manage efforts on multiple activities and/or projects
  • Scour relevant scientific literature within field and surveys broadly beyond own discipline/field
  • May innovate technical methodologies to improve outcomes and achieve results
  • Contribute to patent and publication preparation
  • "Import" new principles/concepts from other fields to develop useful new experimental approaches
  • May be the practical manager of CRO contracts or external collaborative development
  • May supervise other staff (either in direct- or through matrix-management roles)and may be responsible for quality, timeliness and accuracy of work done of others

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Hands on experience with formulation techniques, processing equipment in the laboratory
  • Strong math skills and intermediate applied statistical analysis
  • Strong technical writing, verbal and written communication skills
  • Successful and efficient multitasking and working on a few projects concurrently
  • Detail-oriented
  • Strong background in physical chemistry and good understanding of material properties
  • Broad perspective and a deep knowledge of related disciplines and possesses diverse project experience and a broad knowledge of relevant literature
  • Direct experience working with CMOs is a plus
  • Experience working with small molecule new chemical entities (NCEs) and exposure to early phase formulation development activities
  • Experience with a range of dosage forms, including liquids, solids and oral. Experience with formulation development of poorly soluble compounds would be advantageous
  • Proven ability to apply the principles of the basic sciences, such as physical and organic chemistry, thermodynamics, and materials science, to preformulation development, using a rational, scientific approach
  • A history of success working in environments defined by innovation and initiative
  • Ability to work effectively and comfortably in a multi-disciplinary team under defined timelines
  • Excellent leadership, teamwork and organizational skills
  • Solid verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong data analysis skills

Education and Experience:

  • PhD in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 2-5 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia, or
  • Master's Degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 5 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia, or
  • Bachelor's Degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 8 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia

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Pay Range:

$120,300 - $180,400

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 ...

Job ID: 483158777
Originally Posted on: 6/28/2025

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