Process Chemistry Senior Principal Scientist, Synthetic Peptide Chemist

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is seeking an experienced peptide chemist to join the Process Chemistry group. In this lab-based position you will be responsible for the synthesis, purification, and characterization of small organic compounds, peptides and possibly peptide-conjugated phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PPMOs). In addition, you will be responsible for any tech transfer to external CMOs for phase appropriate development and scale-up.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the synthesis, purification, and characterization of small organic compounds, peptides, and oligonucleotides under minimal supervision
• Manage relationships with external partners
• Identify and advocate for innovative synthetic strategies to project teams
• Collaborate with project teams in a cross-functional environment
• Author or contribute to technical documents including regulatory submissions, patents, and scientific papers
• Maintain a high level of expertise via relevant scientific and technical literature, and proactively apply new ideas to research projects.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong expertise in organic synthesis, especially solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS)
• Developing and scaling-up solid phase and liquid phase chemistry
• Experience with reverse-phase and/or ion-exchange purification of small molecules or peptides
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Education and Experience:

• PhD 6-8 years of experience, or MS degree with 9 years or experience (or equivalent education and experience) in synthetic organic chemistry or peptide chemistry Experience managing external CROs/CMOs
• Experience in nucleic acid modifications and delivery of oligonucleotides are highly desirable
• Experience with small- and large-scale CS-Bio solid phase peptide synthesizers (CS136x, CS936, or equivalent) in non-GMP and GMP environments
• Experience with the synthesis, conjugation and purification of phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMOs) is highly desired

• Experience independently planning, executing experiments, and interpreting analytical data (H/UPLC, NMR, MS, etc.

Keywords: Oligonucleotide, process chemistry, solid-phase synthesis, peptide synthesis

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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