Job Description

Vertex is a global biotechnology company which develops and commercializes innovative medicines with the aim of transforming the lives of patients with serious diseases. Vertex invests well above the industry average in research and development to drive scientific innovation. We currently have four marketed products (all for patients with cystic fibrosis) and a deep pipeline across a diverse range of therapy areas. Over two-thirds of our workforce is in research and development. We are dedicated to attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking Director Intellectual Property Senior Counsel to support its research and development organization. The role will primarily support cell and gene therapy programs. The Director will advise Vertex on a wide range of intellectual property matters, including preparation and prosecution, administrative proceedings, due diligence, and transaction support, in addition to general client counseling. The individual in this position will be highly visible and can directly contribute to Vertex’s success.

The position will be based in Boston and report to the Vice President, Intellectual Property. The position can be either full time in the office or hybrid (3-days in the office).

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Manage intellectual property portfolios for cell and gene therapy candidates, including drafting and filing patent applications, responses to office actions and briefs, and assist in establishing US and International Patent strategies

Conduct periodic patent portfolio reviews

Conduct prior art searches, analyze third-party patent positions, and conduct due diligence to support business development activities

Support the drafting of confidentiality agreements, material transfer agreements, and sponsored research agreements.

Review draft scientific publications for relevance to the IP strategy for programs

Implement and manage intellectual property portfolio strategies worldwide to maximize value and utility of IP assets

Supervise outside counsel in the preparation and prosecution of patent applications worldwide

Coordinate with Vertex’s external collaborators on intellectual property matters

Support potential IPRs, PGRs and Oppositions

Advise management on key IP issues

Knowledge and Skills

Strong knowledge of US and foreign patent law

Exceptional interpersonal skills, high EQ, ability to multi-task in fast paced environment

An ability to manage timelines, including prioritization of the most important tasks, and enlisting assistance from other colleagues / outside law firms where required

Excellent work ethic, integrity, and commitment to professionalism

Exceptional oral and written communication skills

Strong attention to detail, ability to meet deadlines, prioritize work

Strong team player

Good sense of humor

Intellectual curiosity

Education and Experience

An undergraduate degree or advanced degree in chemical sciences such as biology, cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, or other area relevant to pharmaceutical IP practice.

A United States law degree (JD) with a current “good standing” admission to at least one US state bar

Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

7+ years of experience in biologics, preferably cell and gene therapy, (biotechnology/pharmaceutical) intellectual property portfolio creation, strategy, and counseling

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.

Please note that Vertex requires COVID-19 vaccination for all employees working in the U.S. as a condition of employment at Vertex, subject to medical, religious or other accommodations or exemptions required by law. We believe this requirement is vital to keeping everyone at Vertex and in our communities safe. This requirement applies to both existing and new employees who may at any time work on-site at a Vertex facility or visit another location on behalf of Vertex (e.g., conferences, customer visits, etc.), including all remote employees. 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.