Job Description

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that aims to discover, develop, and commercialise innovative new medicines so people with serious diseases can lead better lives. Founded in 1989 in Cambridge, MA, Vertex today has research and development sites and commercial offices around the world in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia.


We are recruiting for an Industrial Placement Student in the Analytical Development department at our Research facility in Abingdon, Oxfordshire as part of our wider intern intake for the year.

Main Duties & Objectives

The research site is a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you will be embedded within a team supporting the early stages of drug discovery and development. You will gain hands-on experience contributing to the analysis, characterisation and stability understanding of small molecules and drug candidates, supporting the development of Vertex's innovative pipeline.


As part of this placement, you will:


Gain exposure to a wide range of analytical techniques but also learn about formulation activities and chemical synthesis including scale-up Learn how research impacts every molecule from early discovery through to commercial production Work closely with experienced scientists to understand early drug discovery and development Contribute to laboratory based projects while developing a strong foundation in experimental design and data analysis
During your Industrial Placement, you will have the opportunity to learn about the biopharmaceutical industry from a hands-on perspective. You will work closely with and learn from some of the brightest people in the field. Students can expect to be challenged by their work, connect with other placement students, and feel valued as part of the Vertex community.

Person Specification

Enrolled in an undergraduate program in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field Passion for scientific innovation and experimentation Desire to develop laboratory and technical skills in an industrial setting Highly motivated and proactive in problem-solving Strong teamwork and communication skills Legal authorisation to work in the United Kingdom, now and in the future (Vertex does not provide sponsorship for entry-level roles within this part of the organisation)

Role Duration

September 2026 to August 2027



Our Ways of Working:


Flex @ Vertex details


Flex Designation: On-Site


Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

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.


#LI-Onsite

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