Biomarkers Research Lab Scientist (Ligand Binding Assays)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); Boston (MA); On-site; USD 102,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On‑site work

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a hands‑on Biomarkers Research Lab Scientist to develop and optimize biomarker assays that support clinical trials. You will design and execute experiments to characterize novel biomarkers in human biofluids and tissues, collaborating closely with the Biomarkers lab team and with Research, Quality, and Biomarker Leads.

The ideal candidate has strong laboratory experience, excellent communication, and a collaborative approach to drive assay readiness and data

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent with 0–3 years post‑doctoral experience, or Master’s with 3+ years, or Bachelor’s with 6+ years relevant experience.
• Hands‑on experience developing ligand binding assays for translational or clinical applications.
• Strong lab experience in molecular and cell biology; proven collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize biomarker assays for clinical studies through hands‑on lab work.
• Characterize biomarkers in biofluids and tissues and assess assay feasibility.
• Conduct mock validations and support data packages for assay readiness.
• Assist with assay transfer to CROs and external labs including handoffs and troubleshooting.
• Analyze and present experimental results to internal stakeholders and project teams.

Skills

Ligand binding assays

Immunoassays

ELISA

Molecular biology

Cell biology

Data interpretation

Scientific presentation

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent

Master’s degree or equivalent

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

qPCR

ddPCR

NGS

Flow cytometry

Western blot

Protein labeling

Job description

Company Overview

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. Our teams bring together deep scientific expertise, advanced technologies, and a commitment to improving patient outcomes through discovery, development, and delivery of innovative therapies. Within Vertex, the Biomarkers organization plays an important role in advancing clinical development through biomarker research, assay development, and cross-functional collaboration.

Role summary

Vertex is seeking a hands‑on Biomarkers Research Lab Scientist to develop and optimize biomarker assays that support clinical trials at Vertex. This individual will design and execute experiments to characterize novel biomarkers in human biofluids and tissues. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to innovative clinical biomarker studies while collaborating closely with members of the Biomarkers lab team and, as needed, with Research, Quality, and Biomarker Leads. The ideal candidate brings strong laboratory experience, effective communication skills, and a collaborative approach.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop innovative biomarker assays for clinical studies at Vertex through hands‑on laboratory work
• Characterize biomarkers in human biofluids and tissues and evaluate assay feasibility
• Perform mock validation experiments and contribute to the generation of data packages supporting assay readiness
• Partner with members of the biomarkers group to support assay transfer to CROs and external laboratories, including technical handoff and troubleshooting
• Analyze, interpret, and present experimental results to internal stakeholders and project teams

Required Education and Qualifications

Ph.D. or equivalent degree with 0–3 years of relevant post‑doctoral employment experience, or Master’s degree or equivalent degree with 3+ years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent degree with 6+ years of relevant employment experience Hands‑on experience developing ligand binding assays for translational or clinical applications Strong laboratory experience in molecular biology and cell biology Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team

Technical Skills Required

Method development and validation experience in ligand binding assays, including immunoassays and ELISA Biomarker assay development, optimization, and troubleshooting Western blot Protein labeling and quantification Molecular biology techniques Cell biology techniques Data interpretation and scientific presentation skills

Preferred Skills

Experience with cell culture and cell‑based assays Experience with genomic assays such as qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS Experience with flow cytometry assays

Benefits

Opportunity to contribute to innovative biomarker research supporting clinical development Exposure to translational and clinical biomarker assay work within a collaborative environment Competitive compensation and comprehensive employee benefits

Pay Range

$102,400 - $153,600

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.

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.

#LI-Onsite

#LI-Onsite

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

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 [e-mail]

Help Us Achieve Our Mission

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases and conditions. The company has approved therapies for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, transfusion‑dependent beta thalassemia, acute pain and acromegaly, and it continues to advance clinical and research programs in these areas. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including IgA nephropathy, neuropathic pain, APOL1‑mediated kidney disease, primary membranous nephropathy, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, ACTH‑dependent Cushing's syndrome, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, generalized myasthenia gravis, and myotonic dystrophy type 1. Vertex was founded in 1989 and has its global headquarters in Boston, with international headquarters in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 16 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex's history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X We believe our culture is one of Vertex’s greatest strengths and a key enabler of our ability to deliver transformative medicines for patients who need them. Rooted in innovation, purpose and collaboration, our culture empowers people to take smart risks, challenge conventional thinking and do their best work. The diversity of our people is central to that culture. By bringing together individuals with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, we foster an environment where new ideas thrive, better decisions are made and breakthrough innovation is possible. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, included and connected to our shared mission, because we know that our unique culture and the collective strength of our people are what set Vertex apart.