Analytical and Purification Senior Research Scientist

Job Description

General

Summary:

We are seeking an Analytical and Purification Chemistry Senior Research Scientist to support discovery programs through the development and execution of analytical and purification strategies. This role requires deep expertise in separation science, with a particular focus on chiral purification using analytical and preparative supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC).

The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality purified compounds and analytical data to cross-functional teams, enabling rapid progression of discovery programs. This position is intended for a scientist who can operate with a high degree of technical independence and serve as a subject matter expert in chiral purification and SFC-based separation science.

• Lead purification support for drug discovery programs using analytical/preparative HPLC and SFC
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot chiral and achiral purification methods, with strong emphasis on enantioseparation using SFC
• Design and execute screening strategies, including column selection and mobile phase optimization, to identify robust separation conditions
• Evaluate crude reaction mixtures and determine fit-for-purpose purification strategies for complex compounds and stereoisomeric mixtures
• Deliver purified compounds and analytical data to project teams in support of medicinal chemistry timelines and decision-making
• Interpret analytical data related to compound identity, chemical purity, and chiral purity
• Partner closely with medicinal chemists and cross-functional teams to address project needs
• Serve as a technical expert in chiral chromatography and SFC-based purification workflows
• Maintain, operate, and troubleshoot analytical and preparative purification instrumentation
• Document experimental work, methods, and results clearly and accurately in appropriate laboratory systems
• Contribute to continuous improvement of purification workflows, analytical methods, and laboratory operations
• Mentor junior scientists and share technical expertise across the team

• Experience supporting medicinal chemistry or small-molecule drug discovery programs
• Familiarity with a broad range of chiral stationary phases, mobile phase modifiers, and SFC screening strategies
• Experience resolving complex stereochemical separations, including diastereomers and atropisomers
• Experience with the analysis and purification of new modalities, including peptides, oligonucleotides, and lipids
• Experience mentoring junior scientists or leading technical initiatives

• PhD in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline with 3-6 years of relevant industry experience; or
• MS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline with 8-10 years of relevant industry experience; or
• BS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline with 10-12 years of relevant industry experience

$124,000 - $186,000

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.

On-Site Designated

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week…