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Toxicology Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join our Predictive and Investigative Safety Assessment (Toxicology) group in San Diego as a Research Scientist . This ...

Strong scientific curiosity and desire to work in the discovery toxicology and drug safety. * Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment while managing multiple ...

Toxicology Research Associate - Preclinical Safety assessment Eurofins about 1 month ago Eurofins PSS is seeking a highly motivated Research Associate to support our client located in Boston, MA.

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Toxicology Research information

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How much do toxicology research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for toxicology research in the United States is $39.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $46.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is toxicology research?

Toxicology research is the scientific study of the adverse effects of chemicals, substances, or environmental agents on living organisms. Researchers in this field investigate how toxins interact with biological systems, assess the risks associated with chemical exposures, and seek to understand mechanisms of toxicity at molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. Toxicology research plays a crucial role in public health, environmental protection, and the development of safe pharmaceuticals and consumer products.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in toxicology research?

Toxicology researchers often encounter challenges such as managing complex and sensitive laboratory experiments, interpreting ambiguous or conflicting data, and keeping up with evolving regulatory standards. Collaborating across multidisciplinary teams—such as chemists, biologists, and regulatory specialists—is essential for comprehensive risk assessments. Additionally, researchers must balance rigorous safety protocols while meeting project deadlines, which requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Toxicology Research vs Toxicology Technician?

AspectToxicology ResearchToxicology Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in toxicology, biology, or related field; often a master's or PhD for research rolesAssociate's degree or certification in toxicology or laboratory techniques
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic institutionsLaboratories, industrial settings, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, pharmaceutical companies, academiaEnvironmental agencies, manufacturing firms, testing labs

In summary, Toxicology Research involves conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand toxic substances, often requiring advanced degrees. Toxicology Technicians support these efforts by performing routine lab tasks and sample testing, typically with less formal education. Both roles are essential in the toxicology field but differ mainly in education level, responsibilities, and work scope.

Do I need a PhD to be a toxicology researcher?

A PhD is typically required for advanced toxicology research positions, especially those involving independent study or leadership roles. However, entry-level roles may accept a bachelor's or master's degree, often supplemented with relevant laboratory skills and certifications. Advanced research often involves extensive training in toxicology, chemistry, or related fields, and a PhD provides the necessary expertise for independent investigation.

Is there a demand for toxicology researchers?

Toxicology research is a growing field with strong demand in pharmaceuticals, environmental agencies, and regulatory bodies. Researchers with expertise in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and relevant certifications are sought after as industries prioritize safety testing and risk assessment.

What does a toxicology research scientist do?

A toxicology research scientist studies the effects of chemicals and substances on living organisms to assess safety and health risks. They design experiments, analyze data, and use laboratory tools such as microscopes and spectrometers, often working in labs or research facilities. Their work supports regulatory decisions, product safety evaluations, and scientific understanding of toxic substances.

Where do toxicology researchers make the most money?

Toxicology researchers tend to earn higher salaries in industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and chemical manufacturing, especially when working in senior roles or with advanced degrees and specialized skills. Salaries are also higher in regions with a strong life sciences sector and in organizations that require extensive regulatory knowledge and laboratory expertise.
More about Toxicology Research jobs

What states have the most Toxicology Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Toxicology Research jobs include:

Infographic showing various Toxicology Research job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,798 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Toxicology Research Scientist

Boston, MA • On-site

Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Biotechnology Research and Development • 1 - 5K employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Vertex Pharmaceuticals rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

## Toxicology Research ScientistApplylocations: Boston, MAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: REQ-29317**Job Description****General Summary:**The Predictive and Investigative Safety Assessment (PISA) group is seeking a candidate with a strong desire to be part of a highly innovative company aimed at transforming the lives of people with serious diseases, their families, and society. This role will support preclinical safety assessment across the global research portfolio from target selection through lead optimization. Work within a close-knit team, this individual will leverage advanced in vitro technologies, laboratory automation, and computational approaches to design, execute, analyze, and derive insights from mechanistic and phenotypic screening assays designed to evaluate the safety of new candidate molecules. As an integral part of Vertex’s discovery toxicology strategy, the individual will help advance the group’s safety screening and investigative capabilities, with a particular focus on developing fit-for-purpose assays to de-risk complex drug modalities. In addition, this person will support the evolution and implementation of improved translation models and approaches within Preclinical Safety Assessment (PSA) and the broader Preclinical Sciences (PCS) organization. The ideal candidate will bring a combination of wet-laboratory and computational expertise, enabling end-to-end contributions from assay conception through data analysis and presentation of results to stakeholders. The individual will work closely with cross-functional colleagues across Preclinical Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry, Data and Computational Sciences, Data Technology and Engineering, and Research with the shared goal of advancing the Vertex portfolio.**Key Duties and Responsibilities:*** Independently evaluate, design, and execute novel in vitro models to support early screening and investigative safety assessment.* Strong focus on identifying and deploying fit-for-purpose investigative assays and methodologies to address emerging safety questions and inform drug development decisions.* Leverage laboratory automation and data analytics tools to accelerate the execution, analysis, and interpretation of medium- to high-throughput experiments evaluating toxicological endpoints.* Partner closely with Research and Preclinical Sciences colleagues to investigate mechanisms of toxicity and assess human relevance in support of actionable safety strategies and candidate progression.* Collaborate with internal and external partners to guide the development, implementation, and continuous refinement of approaches to improve the prediction and translation of drug safety risks.* Serve as a key scientific interpreter and communicator of laboratory findings, translating results from diverse safety assays into clear insights for stakeholders.* Present critical data and recommendations clearly and effectively to project teams, cross-functional partners, and Vertex leadership, as needed.* Evaluate emerging cellular models, screening platforms, and data analytics innovations in toxicology to strengthen and expand internal capabilities.* Mentor and support junior scientists, with opportunities for formal supervisory responsibilities.* Build and maintain external collaborations across academic and industrial settings to further enhance Vertex’s discovery toxicology capabilities.**Knowledge and Skills:*** Demonstrated expertise in the design, execution, and interpretation of biochemical and cell-based screening assays.* Strong hands-on experience in cell culture and assay development, including immortalized cell lines, iPSC-derived models, and/or primary cells systems.* Experience in immunoassay development and execution is preferred, including multiplexed ELISA platforms, as well as cellular immunophenotyping by flow cytometry.* Proficiency in R, Python, MATLAB, or similar scripting languages.* Broad foundation in cellular and molecular biology techniques, particularly in multi-well plate-based experimental formats.* Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to derive clear insights from complex datasets and define appropriate follow-up strategies.* Excellent writing, verbal communication, and presentation skills.* Strong scientific curiosity and desire to work in the discovery toxicology and drug safety.* Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced research environment while managing multiple priorities and contributing at a high scientific level.**Other Requirements:*** Strong desire and aptitude to serve as both a wet-laboratory and computational scientist.* Motivated and adaptable self-starter, with a strong desire to impact project progression.* Demonstrated track record of effective collaboration and teamwork in multi-disciplinary research environments.* Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting.**Education and Experience:*** Bachelor's, Master’s, or PhD degree* PhD and 2+ years of academic or pharmaceutical industry experience or,* Master’s degree and 5+ years of academic or pharmaceutical industry experience or,* Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience**Pay Range:**$101,600 - $152,400**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 Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time. #J-18808-Ljbffr

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