Our Scientists' Testimonials

Here's what a few of Vitae Pharmaceuticals' current scientists say about the company...

"What makes Vitae Pharmaceuticals so special is that we are empowered by our leadership and have the freedom to express our opinions. That makes for a very dedicated group of people." – Joined in 2002 from academia.

"I decided to join Vitae Pharmaceuticals because of the company's culture. Unlike my previous experiences in big pharma, at Vitae Pharmaceuticals you're more connected to what is going on and aren't just a number. Here, I feel like a part of the company with relationships that are positive – even family like. The biggest difference I've found is that at Vitae Pharmaceuticals decisions are made quickly because everyone has access to the senior staff. You simply don't have this kind of accessibility in big pharma. Everything is communicated – from how our work will affect patients to why we are pursuing certain targets. As scientists, we gain exposure to the thought processes behind our business objectives. As a result, I know how my work at the laboratory bench may well affect patients in the future." – Joined in 2008 from big pharma.

"We are a small company with big aspirations. The Computational Chemistry department sets Vitae Pharmaceuticals apart from others, and when the full resources of the company are behind a project, things happen quickly. The pace of innovation is quick, the expectation is for success, and our discoveries will have a positive impact on the world. My passion is for the creativity and innovation that go along with performing lab research. Working at the NIH allowed me to really understand how to do science, and at Vitae Pharmaceuticals I continue to apply those skills and abilities, but in a more entrepreneurial environment. Here, my contributions directly translate into therapies that have the potential to make life better for millions of people. The development of novel compounds needs a constant push to see what can be discovered, tested and validated. At Vitae, you can take full ownership of a project and gain experience in functional areas that are outside of your comfort zone. When a question needs to be answered, there are opportunities to step up to make a difference. The atmosphere at Vitae Pharmaceuticals is supportive, as each scientist and technician brings a unique set of experiences. Everyone is willing to do their part in reaching the company's goals." – Joined in 2007 from the NIH.

"Vitae Pharmaceuticals provides me with a bigger role than I would have had in big pharma so I'm able to assume more responsibility. Management not only encourages this, but also appreciates it. When we need additional resources, often it takes just one request and it's approved. And even if the request is denied, it's very clear why, which is more transparent than in my previous positions. Unlike other organizations, the Modeling group partners with Chemistry. For me, Vitae Pharmaceuticals is unique because computational technology plays a key role in our discovery efforts. This, combined with the level of enthusiasm at work, a sense of ownership, and a tight-knit community are all reasons I would encourage others to join. I look forward to coming to work every day with a sense of enthusiasm to steer the drug design process and accelerate discovery." – Joined in 2004 from big pharma.

"Vitae Pharmaceuticals is 'my world, my way.' I joined because I wanted to see how I could fit into a smaller biotech, the Wild West of the pharmaceutical world. I actually found that I fit very well. In my time here, I've assembled a group of talented individuals to tackle problems that directly affect outcomes. I get full buy-in from all the scientists here – something I couldn't get at a big pharmaceutical company. What's more, there are good folks here who really know their stuff. If you think of it as a big family, you get a fairly good picture of the personal interactions that are possible. Everyone knows your name and you know everyone else. In a small company like Vitae, you get to see the entire process. You come to know exactly how your contributions are used to move the company forward and you find out how far you can really stretch a dollar. If you are a good scientist, confident about the work you do, self-motivated and willing to work in a team with like-minded individuals, Vitae Pharmaceuticals is the place to be. How is working here different than my previous experiences? For instance, I know the CEO, the CSO and the CFO personally. What's more, they actually listen to me when I talk." – Joined in 2005 from big pharma.