Analytical Principal Research Scientist

Job Description

General

Summary:

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated and dynamic Principal Research Scientist to join our Dissolution Team within the Formulation Development Department. This role offers a unique opportunity for a driven individual to contribute to the advancement of our scientific capabilities while growing into a leader within the team. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific foundation, a passion for learning, and the ability to lead with a sense of urgency and purpose.

As a key member of the Dissolution Team, this individual will play a pivotal role in supporting our drug development efforts, driving innovation, and fostering a collaborative and high‑performing team culture. While prior experience in dissolution is beneficial, we are seeking a candidate who demonstrates exceptional leadership potential, a commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

• Leadership and Team Development
  • Lead by example, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the Dissolution Team
  • Mentor and guide team members, supporting their professional growth and development
  • Actively contribute to creating a positive, inclusive, and high‑performing team environment that aligns with Vertex's core values
• Scientific Contributions
  • Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to design, execute, and interpret dissolution studies to support formulation development and regulatory submissions
  • Justification of clinically relevant dissolution method parameters and specifications
  • Understanding of key analytical deliverables for late‑stage programs including method development, validation, specification setting, stability, release testing and analytical strategies to bring these individual items together collectively for a fast‑paced program
  • Authoring dissolution sections for regulatory submissions
  • Designing validation protocols that are in compliance with ICH and FDA guidelines
  • Identifying critical factors/parameters that may not be mandated by guidelines but are essential for developing a robust method and validating it for its intended use
• Problem Solving and Decision Making
  • Approach challenges with a solution‑oriented mindset, leveraging critical thinking and scientific expertise to address complex problems
  • Engage in constructive debates and discussions to drive data‑driven decision‑making and achieve optimal outcomes
• Continuous Learning and Growth
  • Stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in dissolution science and analytical chemistry
  • Proactively seek opportunities for professional development and apply new knowledge to enhance team capabilities
  • Demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth, with a focus on developing leadership skills
• Operational Excellence
  • Work with a sense of urgency to meet project timelines and deliver high‑quality results
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines and company policies in all aspects of dissolution testing and reporting
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices

• Demonstrated ability to develop solutions to complex problems with creativity and innovation
• Proven teamwork, leadership and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to interact with and influence diverse audiences
• Excellent teamwork, verbal and written communication skills

• Ph.D. degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Pharmaceutical Chemistry and 4‑7 years experience, or Master's and 7+ years experience, or Bachelor's and 10+ years experience
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new scientific concepts and techniques
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to foster collaboration and build relationships across teams
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and inspire team members, with a desire to grow into a managerial role
• A passion for innovation, problem‑solving, and driving results in a fast‑paced environment

$140,800 - $211,200

The range provided is based on what we believe is a…