Process Chemistry Scientist

Boston, MA

$104,000–$156,000 per year
Full Time

About the role

Job Description

General Summary:
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Kilo Lab Scientist or Senior Scientist to join the Vertex Manufacturing Center (VMC) cGMP Kilo Lab team. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned synthetic organic process scientist to develop, troubleshoot, and perform the R&D and cGMP synthesis of APIs for toxicology studies, early clinical trials from first in human (FIH) through proof of concept (POC), and transfer development batches. Manufacturing is performed R&D or cGMP in five processing suites in glass and Hastelloy reactors ranging from 10 to 250-L using traditional organic chemistry. Batch sizes range from several hundred grams up to 10 kg.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsible for the safe, compliant and timely Kilo Lab cGMP manufacture of complex APIs for early phase development projects.
- Independently carry out development and scale-up activities for synthetically derived compounds, including raw materials, intermediates, and drug substances in support of cGLP or cGMP studies.
  - Key customers are Process Chemistry and Engineering and Materials Sciences.
  - Key collaborators are Quality Assurance, Release and Stability Lab/Analytical Development, Facility Operations and Engineering, Process Safety, Environmental Health Safety and Sustainability (EHSS), and Materials Management.
Clean and maintain Kilo Lab equipment.
- IOQ new equipment.
Follow all SOPs, WIs and verbal instructions.
- Ensure safety and compliance with all applicable regulations and SOPs and maintain excellent laboratory records and supporting documentation.
Identify and troubleshoot problematic chemistry, scale-up and equipment issues.
Generate effective scientific hypotheses to pursue desired synthesis or manufacturing goals and set new experimental direction based on results.
Work smoothly and effectively in a high-paced, team environment.
Be self-motivated.

Knowledge and Skills:

Proficiency in synthetic organic chemistry, process chemistry, kilo lab or pilot plant manufacture
Demonstrated track record of cross-functional collaboration.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to present complex technical findings to diverse audiences ranging from bench scientists to senior leadership.
Sound understanding of chemical process safety.
Working knowledge of cGMP regulations, documentation standards, and quality systems as applied to drug substance manufacturing, including authoring and reviewing batch records, SOPs, and deviations.

Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety, environmental health standards, and maintaining a culture of quality and compliance across all operations.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of experience or a Master's degree with 3+ years of experience or a PhD with 0-3 years of experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience with analytical HPLC.
Experience with various chromatographic purification techniques at scale.
Experience with micronization of APIs.

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$104,000 - $156,000

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.

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