Director, Medicinal Chemistry

Vertex is seeking a Director, Medicinal Chemistry to provide people management and strategic leadership for small-molecule discovery programs and to help advance compounds from early discovery through candidate selection. This role is responsible for defining and executing medicinal chemistry strategy, leading compound design and optimization, and advancing programs through close partnership with cross-functional teams. The successful candidate will manage a team and bring deep scientific expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a proven track record of advancing discovery-stage programs in a fast-paced research environment.

This is an on-site role.

Lead medicinal chemistry strategy for small-molecule discovery programs aligned with portfolio and project objectives. Drive compound design, synthesis, and optimization to advance high-quality development candidates. Guide SAR strategy and data-driven decision-making to support candidate selection. Partner closely with biology, DMPK, toxicology, and pharmaceutical sciences to advance program goals. Integrate develop ability, drug property, and translational considerations into chemistry strategy. Provide scientific leadership, mentorship, and development support to chemistry team members.

Manage external collaborators and contribute to productive research partnerships. Communicate program strategy, data, risks, and recommendations to senior leadership and governance teams. Support intellectual property strategy in partnership with internal stakeholders.

• Established prowess integrating the activities of distinct functional groups across multiple projects
• Greater aptitude for identifying productive new research initiatives/directions
• Experienced mentor who effectively infuses confidence and team commitment
• Exhibits a record of excellent operational and ethical standards, and team-improvement
• Scientifically diverse, authoritative and effective communicator
• Possesses greater knowledge of drug Development Programs and a keener awareness of issues therein
• High distinction achieved resolving important organizational problems and/or infusing innovation

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or related scientific discipline with 9+ years of relevant postdoctoral industry experience;
  Master’s degree with 12+ years of relevant industry experience; or Bachelor’s degree with 15+ 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.
• Proven ability to mentor scientists and provide strategic scientific leadership.
• Strong communication, strategic thinking, decision-making, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

#LI-KM1 #LI-Onsite

$197,600 - $296,400 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.

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…