Functional Genomics Co-op: CRISPR & Cell Models

JRNLClub; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free 24/7 onsite gym access

Subsidized commuter benefits

Free breakfast daily

Career development opportunities

Social events for interns

Location-specific perks

National Intern Day recognition

Job summary

Vertex is offering a 6-month Functional Genomics Co-op for students pursuing an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, computational biology, or related fields. You will generate gene-edited cellular models, develop disease-relevant assays, and collaborate with scientists across teams to advance therapeutic programs, with a focus on CRISPR‑Cas9 and genomic analyses.

The role requires full-time availability January–June 2027, with a competitive hourly pay and a strong emphasis on

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a master's degree or PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Computational Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands-on experience with human cell culture/tissue culture is required.
• Fundamental molecular biology methods, including PCR and cloning, are required.
• Strong interest and foundational understanding of genetics, genomics, and gene-editing technologies.
• Experience with flow cytometry is highly preferred.
• Experience using CRISPR-Cas9 for gene editing is preferred.
• Experience generating, maintaining, and characterizing mammalian cell lines, including clonal cell-line isolations and cell line validations, is preferred.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States; Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships/co-ops or entry-level roles in this organization.
• Must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2027.
• Must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January–June 2027.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to study planning and oversee experimental activities in accordance with established protocols.
• Collaborate with Vertex scientists to conduct experiments using disease-relevant human cell models, analyze data, and summarize findings.
• Maintain thorough, accurate records of methods, observations, and results in an electronic laboratory notebook.
• Present results and key conclusions clearly to the Functional Genomics team and cross-functional project partners.
• Generate gene-edited cellular models, develop disease-relevant assays, and execute experiments that drive target validation and mechanism-of-action studies.
• Perform cellular screening experiments, evaluate compound activity using flow cytometry and high-content imaging, and analyze data to guide project decisions.

Skills

Cell culture

PCR & cloning

Genetics & genomics

Flow cytometry

Education

Master's or PhD in Biology/ Biochemistry/ Genetics/ Computational Biology

Tools

CRISPR-Cas9

Job description

Vertex is offering a 6-month Functional Genomics Co-op for students pursuing an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, computational biology, or related fields. You will generate gene-edited cellular models, develop disease-relevant assays, and collaborate with scientists across teams to advance therapeutic programs, with a focus on CRISPR‑Cas9 and genomic analyses.

The role requires full-time availability January–June 2027, with a competitive hourly pay and a strong emphasis on