Medicinal Chemistry Senior Principal Research Scientist

Vertex Inc. • San Diego, CA

1d • $164,400 - $246,600 • Onsite

About The Position

Vertex is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry to provide scientific leadership in the design and optimization of small-molecule therapeutics across discovery programs. The role advances high-quality drug candidates from early discovery through candidate selection and partners across multidisciplinary teams to address complex scientific challenges. The position is on-site five days per week, with ad hoc flexibility.

The successful candidate is an accomplished medicinal chemist with deep expertise in small-molecule drug discovery, a strong record of scientific innovation, and demonstrated success in a fast-paced, matrixed research environment. Vertex encourages continuous learning and thoughtful adoption of advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends to improve decision-making, innovation, efficiency, and outcomes for patients.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related scientific discipline with 6+ years of relevant postdoctoral industry experience; or a Master’s degree with 9+ years of relevant industry experience; or a Bachelor’s degree with 11+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Significant experience in medicinal chemistry and small-molecule drug discovery.
• Demonstrated success advancing discovery programs through candidate selection.
• Experience leading cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams, including in matrixed settings.
• Strong communication, strategic thinking, decision-making, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in medicinal chemistry, organic synthesis, small-molecule drug discovery, lead optimization, SAR analysis, compound design, candidate selection, DMPK/ADME collaboration, drug property optimization, and patent support.

Responsibilities

• Lead medicinal chemistry strategy for small-molecule discovery programs in alignment with portfolio and project objectives.
• Design, prioritize, and guide the synthesis of novel compounds to optimize potency, selectivity, pharmacokinetics, and developability.
• Interpret and integrate SAR, structural biology, DMPK, pharmacology, and safety data to drive compound design and progression.
• Partner with biology, DMPK, toxicology, and pharmaceutical sciences to advance program goals.
• Provide technical and strategic leadership to internal and external chemistry resources.
• Provide scientific leadership, mentorship, and development support to chemistry team members.
• Communicate program strategy, data, risks, and recommendations to senior leadership and governance teams.
• Support intellectual property strategy in partnership with internal stakeholders.

Benefits

• Annual bonus and annual equity awards; some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal and state requirements.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off, including a week-long company shutdown in the summer and winter.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Commuting subsidy.
• Matching charitable donations.
• 401(k).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior