New

Molecular and Cell Biology Principal Research Scientist, Targeted Drug Delivery

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
paid time off, 401(k)
United States, California, San Diego
11010 Torreyana Road (Show on map)
Sep 19, 2025
Job Description Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has approved medicines that treat the underlying causes of multiple chronic, life-shortening genetic diseases - cystic fibrosis, pain, sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia - and continues to advance clinical and research programs in these diseases. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases. The Principal Research Scientist will focus on targeted drug delivery including nucleic acid therapies. This role will be on-site in our state-of-the-art research site in San Diego. The successful candidate will have extensive expertise in receptor biology and targeted delivery in extrahepatic tissues/cells which is instrumental in the development of novel therapeutics. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Develop and implement strategic plans for receptor & ligand identification, characterization, optimization, and application in drug discovery. Responsible for executing research plans, collecting and interpreting data, trouble shooting, and defining next steps. Collaborate with cross-functional partners (medicinal chemistry, computational genomics, molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, protein sciences) to support integrated drug discovery programs from target validation through lead optimization. Apply innovative approaches and stay current with advances in receptor biology, ligand discovery, and nucleic acid therapeutics to strengthen pipeline opportunities. Prepare and present data in project team meetings, contributing scientific insight and recommendations to guide program strategy. Maintain high standards of scientific rigor, accurate documentation, data integrity, and compliance with regulatory guidelines. Knowledge and Skills: Strong expertise in receptor biology, ligand-receptor interactions and signaling mechanisms. Hands-on experience with biochemical, biophysical, and/or cell-based assays to study receptor function and behavior. Experience with ligand-mediated delivery into specific tissues or cell types is highly desirable. Demonstrated track record of scientific achievement (e.g., publications, presentations, or contributions to therapeutic programs) in receptor biology and targeted drug delivery. Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary project teams. Excellent personal and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and drive decision-making across functions. Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary, and innovative environment Education and Experience: Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in biology, biochemistry or related science and 4-7 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or Master's degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, biochemistry or related science and 7+ years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in biology, biochemistry or related science and 10+ years of relevant employment experience #LI-KM1 #LI-Onsite Pay Range: $136,000 - $204,000 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. 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