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Toxicology Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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How much do toxicology research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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:

What job categories do people searching Toxicology Research jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Toxicology Research jobs are:

Infographic showing various Toxicology Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,798 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Toxicology Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

San Diego, CA • On-site

$101.60 - $152.40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Vertex Pharmaceuticals rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

78th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

## Toxicology Research ScientistApplylocations: San Diego, CAtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todayjob requisition id: REQ-29297**Job Description**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 lab-based role offers an exciting opportunity to lead the development of advanced 3D organoid models, organ-on-a-chip technologies, and fit-for-purpose assays to investigate toxicological mechanisms and support our therapeutic discovery and development efforts. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of working with complex in vitro models, including primary cells and immune cells in 3D formats or co-culture systems, and will bring expertise in developing and applying innovative approaches to assess molecular toxicities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cellular biology, toxicology, and advanced in vitro model systems, with demonstrated experience in tissue engineering and assay optimization. Experience with immune cell co-culture models, primary cell systems, and high-throughput plate formats is highly desirable.**Key Duties and Responsibilities:*** Design and develop fit-for-purpose assays to investigate toxicological mechanisms using advanced 3D organoid models, organ-on-a-chip technologies, and/or co-culture systems.* Lead the development and application of innovative platforms for studying toxicology in multicellular systems, including immune cell interactions and primary cell-based models.* Develop and optimize assays to evaluate toxicological mechanisms, with a focus on precision, reproducibility, and scalability.* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate advanced *in vitro* models into drug discovery workflows, supporting safety assessment and therapeutic development.* Apply cutting-edge technologies, including automation and high-throughput plate formats, to enhance assay performance and throughput.* Partner with Systems Toxicology to generate and analyze complex biological datasets from *in vitro* models, enabling the identification of toxicological mechanisms and establishing *in vitro-in vivo* correlations.* Effectively communicate scientific findings, project progress, and key insights in project team meetings, department meetings, and discussions with key stakeholders to drive decision-making and inform strategic goals.**Knowledge and Skills:*** Familiarity with omics datasets (transcriptomics, proteomics, secretomics, etc.).* Experience with scripting (Python and/or R/Bioconductor).* Demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and collaborate across disciplines.* Self-motivated, organized, and innovative, with excellent communication and presentation skills.* Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex biological and technical challenges in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.* A passion for advancing toxicology research to improve drug safety and transform the lives of patients.**Education and Experience:*** Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in toxicology, cellular biology, immunology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines with 0-3 years of relevant postdoctoral employment experience, or a Masters degree and 3+ years of experience or a Bachelors degree and 6+ years of experience* Strong expertise in developing and working with 3D organoid models, organ-on-a-chip technologies, and/or co-culture systems, particularly involving primary epithelial cells and immune cells.* Proven experience in designing and optimizing cell-based assays **for disease modeling and/or evaluating mechanisms of toxicity**.* Expertise in immune cell biology and co-culture models for studying immune-mediated toxicities.#LI-KM1#LI-Onsite**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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