Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking an experienced Principal Research Associate to join LNP Discovery team. The successful candidate will formulate, purify, and analyze LNPs from small to large scale, partnering with colleagues across disciplines in a collaborative, fast-paced setting. The candidate will drive method and process optimization to improve yield, scalability, and product quality while maintaining high standards of scientific rigor.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Formulate, purify, and analyze LNPs at small- and large-scale using industry-standard protocols.
• Run routine LNP analytics, including but not limited to size, cargo encapsulation efficiency, pKa, osmolality, and endotoxin.
• Follow SOPs and maintain clear, complete, and accurate ELN-based experimental records.
• Comfortable with automated formulation and analytics workflows.
• Troubleshoot issues that arise during protocol execution and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Support formulation and process development, such as mixing rate and purification conditions, to improve yield and scalability.
• Improve low-yield processes to meet formulation targets (e.g., DoE enabled specific delivery outcomes).
• Meet established deadlines and adapt to strategic changes in a dynamic, fast-paced drug development environment.
• Demonstrate a strong collaborative mindset to advance assigned experiments and projects smoothly and efficiently.
• Learn new techniques and expand technical capabilities.
• Present and explain experimental designs, and data clearly in team and cross-functional meetings.

Technical Knowledge and Skills:

• Extensive hands-on experience in various LNP formation mixing technologies, including but not limited to various microfluidic mixing and Impingement Jet Mixing devices.
• Ample experience and knowledge of LNP purification techniques including Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF).
• Proficiency in assembling and operating various mixer and TFF systems.
• Deep expertise and understanding in LNP process development experiments.
• Experience in planning and executing DoE driven method development.
• Experience on LNP formulation manufacturing for non-human primate studies.
• Complete knowledge and experience on running various LNP analytics including Size, PDI, cargo encapsulation, pKa, Osmolality, and Endotoxin measurement.
• Practical experience of LC-MS or other LNP assay development will be plus.
• Exemplary work ethic and commitment to scientific rigor.
• Strong communication skills.

Education and Experience:

Master’s degree in chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 5+ years industry experience OR Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, or related discipline with 7+ years industry experience.

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:

$88,200 - $132,400

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.

LI-Onsite

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