Pharmacology Principal Research Associate

Vertex Pharmaceuticals; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals seeks a Pharmacology Principal Research Associate to lead high‑quality independent research on compound effects in ex vivo and in vivo disease biology. You will design, execute, and analyze flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments using rodent and large animal samples, while handling in vivo procedures and basic bioanalytical assays.

The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with animal handling, dosing via multiple routes, perfusion, tissue processing, and ELISA on

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science required.
• 5+ years of experience with a Bachelor’s degree, or 2+ years with a Master’s degree.
• Experience with flow cytometry and cell sorting in ex vivo/in vivo studies.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo experiments with independence.
• Lead flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting workflows for ex vivo samples from rodent and large animal studies.
• Perform sample/cell preparation, staining, acquisition, panel optimization, gating analysis, and sorting with strong technical rigor.
• Apply sound judgment to prioritize studies based on project impact.
• Conduct basic in vivo procedures, including animal handling, dosing via multiple ROAs, perfusion, blood and other fluid sample collection, tissue dissection/processing.
• Perform basic analytical assays, including ELISA analysis of serum and urine samples.
• Perform basic statistical analyses of experimental data, as appropriate.
• Independently troubleshoot experimental challenges and refine protocols as needed.
• Contribute to publication and patent submission processes.
• Prepare clear, well‑structured protocols, study plans, and reports.
• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and emerging trends.
• Present findings effectively at internal group, department, or project meetings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Skills

Flow cytometry

Cell sorting

In vivo pharmacology

ELISA

Data analysis

Experiment design

Publication / patents

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological science

Tools

Flow cytometer

Job description

General Summary

The Pharmacology Principal Research Associate is responsible for delivering high-quality, independent research to evaluate the effects of compounds on ex vivo and/or in vivo disease biology. This individual demonstrates advanced technical proficiency, strong attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot and adapt methodological approaches. A key focus of this role is the design, execution, and analysis of flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments, particularly using ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies.

Job Description

The Pharmacology Principal Research Associate is responsible for delivering high-quality, independent research to evaluate the effects of compounds on ex vivo and/or in vivo disease biology. This individual demonstrates advanced technical proficiency, strong attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot and adapt methodological approaches. A key focus of this role is the design, execution, and analysis of flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments, particularly using ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies.

The ideal candidate will also have hands‑on experience with basic in vivo techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple routes of administration (ROAs), perfusion, biofluid collection, tissue dissection/processing, and basic bioanalytical assays such as ELISA using serum and urine samples. While collaborating with their supervisor to set objectives, this individual maintains ownership of experimental design and execution.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo experiments with a high degree of independence and reliability
• Lead and support flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting workflows for ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies
• Perform sample/cell preparation, staining, acquisition, panel optimization, gating analysis, and sorting with strong technical rigor
• Apply sound judgment to prioritize studies based on project impact
• Conduct basic in vivo procedures, including:
• Animal handling
• Dosing through multiple routes of administration (ROAs)
• Perfusion
• Blood and other fluid sample collection
• Tissue dissection and processing
• Perform basic analytical assays, including ELISA analysis of serum and urine samples
• Perform basic statistical analyses of experimental data, as appropriate
• Independently troubleshoot experimental challenges and refine protocols as needed
• Contribute to publication and patent submission processes
• Prepare clear, well‑structured protocols, study plans, and reports
• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and emerging trends
• Present findings effectively at internal group, department, or project meetings
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong technical expertise in flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting, including work with ex vivo samples from rodent and large animal tissues
• Demonstrated proficiency in designing and interpreting experiments to assess compound effects in ex vivo and/or in vivo disease models
• Hands‑on experience with basic in vivo pharmacology techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple ROAs, perfusion, fluid collection, and tissue dissection/processing
• Experience with basic analytical methods, including ELISA assays for serum and urine samples
• Solid understanding of core biological and immunological principles
• Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret follow‑up experiments
• Strong analytical skills, including interpretation of complex datasets and refinement of experimental protocols
• Proven reliability, particularly in high‑impact or sensitive studies
• Effective written and verbal communication skills within area(s) of expertise
• Developing knowledge of related scientific disciplines; background in muscular dystrophy and/or cystic kidney disease is a plus

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science required
• Typically requires:
• Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience, or
• Master’s degree with 2+ years of experience

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision‑making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range

$89,800 - $134,800

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.

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]