Pharmacology Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

We are seeking a talented, self-motivated and collaborative in vivo pharmacologist to join the integrated pharmacology team which supports late-stage drug discovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in pharmacology, work with high degree of independence and be adept at conceptually designing, executing and interpreting in vivo/ex vivo experiments to establish therapeutic proof-of-concept across diverse disease areas.

Key Duties And Responsibilities

• Design, and conducts elaborate, conceptually connected, multi-component in vivo/ex vivo experiments to demonstrate therapeutic proof-of-concept in preclinical disease models including pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and efficacy relationships.
• Perform advanced and/or complex experimental assay development or troubleshooting.
• Collate and interpret complex data systematically, and synthesize results into cohesive body of conclusions or recommendations to guide Project decision and new research activities.
• Exercises solid judgement to prioritize studies, considering feasibility and Project impact.
• Scours relevant scientific literature and routinely incorporates insights into research activities.
• Identifies, prioritizes and introduces relevant emerging technologies in their field of expertise to advance the existing technology platforms and create/maintain a competitive advantage.
• Explores the feasibility of applying new scientific principles/concepts or implement and validate novel experimental approaches and technologies to achieve project goals.
• Contributes significantly to patent and/or publication preparation.
• Independently prepares study presentations and presents experimental conclusions at internal Group/department or Project Team research meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
  
  

Knowledge And Skills

• Designs and executes complex, well controlled, challenging experiments that measure the action of compounds on in vivo/ex vivo disease biology assays.
• A broad working knowledge of fundamental pharmacology principles.
• Demonstrated astute understanding of their own discipline and relevant literature.
• Maintain high level of knowledge related to current development in the scientific Project field.
• Displays proven productivity and experimental creativity and effective dissemination of ideas.
• Demonstrates effective, self-sufficient communication, especially in peer-directed presentations.
• Demonstrates awareness of other Project-related disciplines and an understanding of general concepts and some experimental detail within those areas.
• Must be proficient in rodent handling, dosing (PO, IV, IP, SC), survival blood collection (tail nick, cardiac puncture, submandibular) and tissue harvesting.
• Demonstrated experience developing, executing and troubleshooting assays across a wide array of in vivo and molecular techniques (i.e. ELISA, qPCR and flow cytometry).
• Ability to rapidly learn and master new techniques and technologies, organized and be an efficient multi-tasker with excellent record keepings.
• Essential qualities include integrity, flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to function both independently and effectively as part of an interactive and cross-functional team.
  
  

Education And Experience

• PhD in a relevant discipline (Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry or related Biological Sciences) with 0-3 years of experience or MS with 3 years of experience or BS/BA with 6 years of experience.
• Experience with in vivo/ex-vivo models.
• Self-motivation, independence, organization, effective communication, and presentation skills; adept in solving/troubleshooting complex problems as well as the ability to navigate a fast-paced work environment.
  
  

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