Molecular & Cell Biology Research Scientist

Job Description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is looking for a highly motivated Cell and Molecular Biology Research Scientist to join the Human Cell Models (HCM) team at the Boston Research site. The successful applicant will work with a cross-functional team to develop relevant cell models and assays to enable small molecule discovery screening and mechanism of action studies.

This role will require a creative thinker to propose innovative strategies using cutting edge technologies to crack the biology of challenging diseases. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning, genome engineering and assay development and will thrive in a collaborative fast-moving research environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, execute and analyze experiments independently while simultaneously working in close collaboration with team members
• Build tool cell models via CRISPR/Cas9 or dCas9 to knock-in reporter tags, mutations or regulatory elements
• Generate and validate stable reporter lines using CRISPR knock-in and lentiviral transductions
• Perform mammalian cell culture, transfection, and clonal selection (FACS, antibiotic selection, single cell cloning)
• Develop and miniaturize cell-based assays (fluorescent, luminescent, FRET/BRET) for high throughput screening
• Perform experiments and mechanism of action studies in cell models to address key questions related to disease or compound mechanism
• Analyze and present results, and recommend courses of action based on datasets to research teams in a clear and compelling manner
• Be a key member of the HCM team and serve as a strong representative on interdisciplinary project teams

Required Experience:

• Broad experience in culturing primary and immortalized human cell lines
• Expertise in generating engineered cell lines using molecular tools such as CRISPR/ Cas9, dCas9 or flp-in systems
• Demonstrated skills in designing plasmid and expression vectors for reporters and dCas9 systems
• Experience with cellular assay development for protein quantification, interactions, and localization, using luciferase technology, Alphalisa, FRET and/or Western blotting
• Excellent record keeping and documentation skills required
• Excellent troubleshooting and multi-tasking skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently are required
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment
• Background in python coding for bioinformatics, NGS analysis, or large assay data analysis is a plus
• Experience working with primary or immortalized lymphocyte cell models is a plus

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related disciplines with 5+ years of relevant industry, or academic experience

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

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