Formulation Senior Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

The Formulation Senior Research Scientist will work with other scientists dedicated to advancing drug candidates from exploratory development through commercial line extension in a Quality by Design (QbD) environment using lab based and computational tools to design and select dosage forms and manufacturing process. This role designs and executes elaborate experiments for pharmaceutical sciences projects and demonstrates resourcefulness in running multiple activities concurrently, all related to achievement of goals/objectives.

Key Duties And Responsibilities:

• Develop dosage forms for clinical and commercial use
• Develop stable and bioavailable formulations for different stages of development (e.g. solution/suspension based formulations, amorphous pharmaceutical systems into solid oral dosage forms, parenterals, etc.)
• Designs and performs technically challenging experiments in compliance with applicable regulations and SOPs
• Interprets moderately complicated, multidimensional data and makes recommendations on new processes and development directions
• Performs relatively advanced experimental troubleshooting and methods development
• "Multi-tasks" to effectively manage efforts on multiple activities and/or projects
• Scours relevant scientific literature within field and surveys broadly beyond own discipline/field
• May innovate technical methodologies to improve outcomes and achieve results
• Contributes to patent and publication preparation
• "Imports" new principles/concepts from other fields to develop useful new experimental approaches
• May be the practical manager of CRO contracts or external collaborative development
• May supervise other Pharmaceutical Operations staff and may be responsible for quality, timeliness and accuracy of work done of others

Knowledge And Skills:

• Sound knowledge of pharmaceutical and engineering principles in the solid dosage form development for both clinical and commercial scales
• Hands on experience with formulation techniques, processing equipment, and unit operations at both the laboratory and clinical manufacturing scales
• Strong math skills particularly as applied to material/energy balances, and intermediate applied statistical analysis
• Strong technical writing, verbal and written communication skills
• Successful and efficient multitasking and working on a few projects concurrently
• Detail-oriented
• Strong background in physical chemistry and good understanding of material properties
• Broad perspective and a deep knowledge of related disciplines and possesses diverse project experience and a broad knowledge of relevant literature and regulatory compliance
• Direct experience working with CMOs is a plus
• Understanding of QbD and experience with regulatory filings is a plus
• Experience working with small molecule new chemical entities (NCEs) and exposure to early phase formulation development activities
• Experience with a range of dosage forms, including liquids, solids and oral. Experience with formulation development of poorly soluble compounds would be advantageous
• Proven experience managing the scale-up and manufacturing of solid oral dosage forms
• Proven ability to apply the principles of the basic sciences, such as physical and organic chemistry, thermodynamics, and materials science, to preformulation and formulation development, using a rational, scientific approach
• A history of success working in environments defined by innovation and initiative
• Ability to work effectively and comfortably in a multi-disciplinary team under defined timelines
• Excellent leadership, teamwork and organizational skills
• Solid verbal and written communication skills
• GLP, GMP and GxP experience
• Strong data analysis skills
• Willingness to travel as needed

Education And Experience:

• PhD in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 2-5 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia, or
• Master's Degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 5 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia, or
• Bachelor's Degree in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, materials sciences or related field and 8 years experience in life sciences, engineering or academia

Pay Range:

$120,300 - $180,400

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.

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.

Company Information

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.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com