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Sr. Director, Pharmacology


Job Location:

San Diego, CA - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 238900 - 358300
Posted: 3 September 2026 (13 days ago)
Application Deadline: 9 December 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Job Description

Vertex is seeking an exceptional scientific leader to drive the development and incorporation of human disease models and assays into drug discovery programs. The Sr. Director Pharmacology will lead a department responsible for the design development and execution of in vitro and in vivo assays that support the progression and optimization of human therapeutics including assays used todeterminedrug potency efficacy and mechanism of action. This leader will also serve as a member of the San Diegobiologyleadership team and help shape siteresearchdirectionand cross-departmental projects.

KeyDuties &Responsibilities

  • Direct pharmacology strategy including assays that assess potency efficacy and mechanism of action andprovidescientific operational andpeopleleadership across multiple programs and teams.
  • Lead the Pharmacology function and manage a team responsible for in vitro and in vivo assays that support drug discovery and therapeutic optimization.
  • Set team prioritiesallocateresources manage budgets andhiring and ensure progress against company goals.Mentor and develop staff promote ethical scientific practices and support a high-performingteamculture.
  • Drive study planning data quality reporting publications patents and compliance withregulatorydocumentation standards.
  • Partner across functions and sites to influence research direction reduce project risk and advance innovative solutions.
  • Communicate priorities capabilities progress and recommendations clearly to project teams collaborators senior management and across a matrixed organization.

Knowledge and Skills:

  • Strong leadership and strategic thinking with the ability to lead scientists and coordinate cross-functional drug discovery efforts.
  • Provenpeoplemanagement skills including mentoring recruiting and developing scientific teamsincluding Ph.D. scientists and Research Associates.
  • Deepexpertisein pharmacologyincluding invitro/in vivo assay design execution analysis and interpretation.Strong knowledge of pharmacological principles and the drug discovery process.
  • Extensive experience with ion channel pharmacology/electrophysiology and mechanism-of-action studies.
  • Evidence of developing innovative translational in vitro and/or in vivo models that predict human efficacy.
  • Ability to analyze complex data communicate findings clearly and recommendnextsteps to varied audiences.
  • Proven ability to work effectively in a fast-paced matrixed research environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with credibility across senior leadership and scientific stakeholders.

Education and Experience:

  • Ph.D. in Pharmacology or a related field with relevant post-doctoralindustryemployment experience.
  • 12 years of drug discovery experience withdemonstratedexcellence in early-stage drug discovery and development.
  • Successfultrack recordmanaging functional or cross-functional research groups including Ph.D. Scientists and Research Associates.

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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:

$238900 - $358300

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 Vertexs Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

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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 persons 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


Required Experience:

Exec


About Company

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Vertex Pharmaceuticals invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases.

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