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Vertex Pharmaceuticals · 3 weeks ago

Vertex Summer 2026 Intern, Formulation Development, Small Molecule

Boston, MA

Internship

Hybrid

Intern

$20/hr - $32/hr

Start in 2026 Spring

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a global biotechnology company dedicated to tackling serious diseases and improving lives. They are seeking a motivated summer intern for their Formulation Development Department, where the intern will work on developing small-molecule formulations and processes, collaborate with formulation scientists, and gain meaningful experience in drug development.

BiotechnologyHealth CareMedicalPharmaceutical

Growth Opportunities

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Review literature of Lyophilization theory / process, and equipment familiarization

Review literature and understand the importance of container closure integrity for parenteral drug products

Understand theory of FMS-Oxygen Headspace Analyzer and equipment familiarization

Sample preparation by lyophilization of drug product filled at different N2 pressure, including positive controls

Establish a model and workflow to determine the time required for oxygen ingress into the vials and establish a predictable detection limit

Develop an in-process control container closure integrity method based on oxygen headspace for parenteral lyophilized drug product vials

Participate in group discussion and present project updates, including a final project summary to the broader department at the end of the internship

Qualification

PhD in Engineering/ScienceParenteral formulation developmentLyophilization techniquesStatistical analysisOxygen headspace analysisMath skillsCommunication skillsCritical thinkingTeam collaboration

Required

Must be currently enrolled in a PhD program in engineering/science field (Pharmaceutical Science, Chemical engineering, Chemistry or similar)

Minimum GPA of 3.2

Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to think critically

Strong math skills particularly as applied to material/energy balances, and intermediate applied statistical analysis

Ability to work effectively and comfortably in a multi-disciplinary team under defined timelines

Hands-on experience in parenteral formulation development techniques

Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships or entry level roles within this part of the organization

You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before August 2026

You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from May – August 2026