Job Description

The Discovery Research group at Vertex Cell and Gene Therapies seeks a Senior Research Associate passionate about stem cell biology to contribute to the team’s mission to develop future cell therapies to treat all patients with type 1 diabetes.

In this role, this candidate will contribute to small-scale screens to optimize stem cell-derived islet differentiation and will develop and execute assays reporting on cell identity and performance. We seek a candidate with a strong background in cell biology or cell therapy, as well as familiarity with analytical methods in cell and molecular biology.

In addition to applying technical proficiency in stem cell maintenance, differentiation, and characterization, the individual in this role will work closely with our scientists on experimental design, data analysis and interpretation. The position requires strong communication and organization skills, as well as proven adaptability and multitasking capability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform human pluripotent stem cell culture and support discovery research efforts in stem cell biology.
• Carry out experiments to optimize and troubleshoot stem cell differentiation.
• Utilize analytical tools to evaluate cellular and molecular characteristics during pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation.
• Maintain rigorous records of experiments and associated data analysis
• Follow protocols and contribute to team’s stem cell differentiation studies (periodic weekend work is required).
• Collaborate cross-functionally to plan, coordinate, and execute experiments.
• Present studies effectively at internal group or project team research meetings, summarize data into reports for supervisor.
• Assist with lab management: track cell culture reagents, place orders, prepare media and reagents, continuously work to improve lab operations.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Strong mammalian cell culture experience is required; previous experience in stem cell (e.g., hESC and/or hiPSC) culture and differentiation is helpful.
• Experience with many of the following: flow cytometry, gene expression assays (qPCR, NanoString), sc-RNAseq, cell-based assays (proliferation, cytotoxicity, reporter assays, etc), liquid handling.
• Ability to design and execute follow-up experiments with input from supervisor.
• Must possess critical thinking and self-reliance to solve tasks independently, as well as a willingness to ask questions.
• Outstanding organizational and multitasking capabilities as well as the flexibility to quickly pivot as projects demand.
• Ability to effectively communicate project progress, needs, and problems.

Education and Experience Level:

• BS 4+ years of relevant experience.
• MS 0-2+ years of relevant experience .

Pay Range:

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:

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.

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.

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