Computational Genomics Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); United States; Hybrid; USD 112,000 - 168,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity awards

Total rewards benefits

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals seeks a Computational Genomics Research Scientist to advance cell and gene therapies. You will design genomic studies, perform bulk and single-cell analyses, and generate insights to accelerate early research across programs.

The role is hybrid (3 days onsite) and requires collaboration with stem cell biology, immunology and pre-clinical teams. Ph.D. in a quantitative field and strong Python/R skills are preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience analyzing genomic and NGS data and deriving biological insights.
• Strong communication of complex results to interdisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of single-cell genomics and spatial transcriptomics preferred.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define key genomic questions.
• Lead spatial transcriptomics efforts and develop analytical workflows.
• Analyze bulk and single-cell sequencing, multiomics data to generate insights.
• Translate findings into actionable recommendations for research plans.
• Maintain reproducible computational pipelines and document methods.

Skills

Genomic data analysis

Data visualization

Scientific communication

Collaborative work

NGS data interpretation

Education

Ph.D. in computational biology, bioinformatics, genomics, systems biology, biomedical engineering, statistics, computer science, or related quantitative discipline

Master's degree in related field with 3+ years of industry experience

Tools

Python

R

Linux HPC

Job description

Job Description We are seeking a Computational Genomics Research Scientist to support the development of transformative cell and gene therapies across Vertex's research portfolio. This Boston-based position is part of the global Data and Computational Sciences organization and will collaborate closely with research teams spanning stem cell biology, immunology, gene editing, and pre‑clinical development to design studies, execute and analyze complex genomic analyses, and ultimately generate biological insights that drive early research across multiple disease programs. As an embedded computational scientist, you will be responsible for performing bulk and single‑cell sequencing analyses, spatial transcriptomics, and multiomic profiling to help uncover the molecular programs that govern therapeutic cell identity, differentiation, function, and safety to accelerate the development of next‑generation cell and gene therapies. This is a Boston based, hybrid position requiring 3 days/week onsite.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborate closely with cross‑functional research teams to identify key scientific questions that can be addressed through genomics, sequencing, and bioinformatics approaches. Lead the application and advancement of spatial transcriptomics methods, collaborating across teams and sites to develop, implement, and share analytical best practices. Analyze and integrate diverse genomic datasets, including bulk RNA‑seq, single‑cell profiling, spatial transcriptomics, and other multiomic datasets to generate actionable insights. Perform sophisticated computational analyses of sequencing and other biological data through deep critical thinking, incorporation of published findings and best practices from the field, strong statistical rigor, and data science visualizations. Distill complex analyses and scientific results into key take‑home messages and recommendations for next steps to a broad audience. Partner with computational and software teams to improve analytical workflows, reproducibility, usability, and robustness. Practice reproducible research and maintain well‑described, version‑controlled analytical workflows. Author study reports and technical documentation to support research and regulatory activities. Evaluate emerging genomics technologies and computational methods and incorporate new approaches where appropriate.

Knowledge and Skills

A proven track record in the analysis, visualization, and interpretation of genomic and next‑generation sequencing (NGS) data. Solid scientific understanding of gene editing, the role of genetic variation in human disease, molecular biology, and cellular biology. Expertise with applying computational methods and bioinformatics tools to large‑scale data. Solid understanding of statistics.

Education and Experience

Ph.D. in computational biology, bioinformatics, genomics, systems biology, biomedical engineering, statistics, computer science, or a related quantitative discipline, with 0‑3 years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience; or a Master's degree in a related field with 3+ years of relevant industry experience. Demonstrated expertise in the design, analysis, visualization, and interpretation of single‑cell genomics and spatial transcriptomics experiments. Proficiency in Python and/or R for scientific computing and data analysis. Experience working in Linux‑based high‑performance computing (HPC) and/or cloud computing environments. Strong foundation in statistics, experimental design, and reproducible computational research. Proven ability to derive biological insight from complex datasets and translate findings into actionable recommendations for research teams. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex scientific findings to multidisciplinary audiences. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within cross‑functional teams and contribute to a positive, team‑oriented environment.

Pay Range

$112,000 - $168,000 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 and Eligibility Status

Hybrid‑Eligible Or On‑Site Eligible Flex Eligibility Status: In this Hybrid‑Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as: 1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select 2. On‑Site: 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 [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

Culture and Inclusion

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.