Process Dev Engineering Senior Scientist, Media Development

Overview

Cell, gene, and biologic therapies are rapidly growing parts of Vertex Pharmaceuticals. This role is in the Process Development team supporting media development and optimization for stem cell culture media used in cell and gene therapy applications. The position will be based in Boston, MA.

• Develop robust and cost-effective cell culture media for commercial‑scale manufacturing.
• Define and implement technical roadmaps for media development and optimization, ensuring alignment with business priorities and leadership strategy.
• Troubleshoot complex raw material sourcing and control challenges, with a strong understanding of GMP, regulatory, and quality requirements.
• Develop and optimize high‑throughput, small‑scale media screening toolboxes to enhance media development processes.
• Stay up to date with emerging analytical tools, omics technologies and scientific advancements to drive hypothesis‑guided media optimization.
• Generate and review technical reports, regulatory filings, source documents, patents and external publications.
• Support media preparation protocol transfer to the pilot team and GMP manufacturing tech transfer.
• Foster strong partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, proactively managing relationships to ensure alignment and efficient execution.
• Potentially manage or mentor a small group of junior‑level employees.
• Lead by example, work closely with the lab team and conduct hands‑on experiments.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

• Strong fundamental knowledge in cell culture metabolism and biological pathways, and extensive experience in media development (stem‑cell culture experience preferred).
• Extensive experience in cell culture process development, perfusion processes, and bioreactors across scales.
• Experience with high‑throughput and automated cell culture platforms highly preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of raw material control and sourcing considerations.
• Solid knowledge of statistical principles and design of experiments (DOE).
• Working knowledge of cGMP.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks while meeting timelines and adapting to changing priorities.
• Strong people skills, ability to work with diverse team dynamics, and potential to manage a team.
• Excellent organizational skills and high attention to detail.

Degree in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline (e.g., chemical or biochemical engineering, natural or life sciences).
PhD with 2–5 years of relevant industry work experience,
or an MS with 6–9 years of relevant industry experience,
or a BS with 8–11 years of industry experience. Participation in weekend work rotation with the broader team is required.

Salary range: $123,200–$184,800. The 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.

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.