Pharmacology Principal Research Associate

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

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Equity awards

Paid time off

401(k)

Job summary

Vertex Inc. is seeking a Pharmacology Principal Research Associate to deliver independent research on how compounds affect disease biology in vivo and ex vivo. You will design and execute flow cytometry and cell sorting studies using rodent and large animal samples, and perform basic in vivo procedures and ELISA assays.

The role emphasizes owning experimental design, presenting findings, and supporting publications and patents while collaborating with supervisors and cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biological sciences with 5+ years of experience or Master's with 2+ years in biology.
• Expertise in flow cytometry, cell sorting, and analysis of rodent and large animal samples.
• Hands-on in vivo pharmacology techniques including dosing, perfusion, and tissue processing.
• Experience with ELISA assays and basic bioanalytical methods; strong data interpretation.
• Ability to independently design, run, troubleshoot experiments and report results.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo experiments with high independence.
• Lead flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting for ex vivo samples from animal studies.
• Prepare samples, perform staining, panel optimization, gating, and sorting.
• Prioritize studies based on project impact using sound judgment.
• Perform basic in vivo procedures: animal handling, dosing via ROAs, perfusion, and tissue processing.
• Carry out ELISA analyses on serum and urine samples and analyze data.
• Contribute to publications and patent submissions, and prepare protocols and reports.

Skills

Flow cytometry

Cell sorting

In vivo pharmacology

ELISA

Data analysis

Independent experimental design

Publication and patent preparation

Education

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Master's degree in biological sciences

Tools

Flow cytometer

ELISA plate reader

Job description

Job Description

General Summary:

The Pharmacology Principal Research Associateis 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 experimentswith a high degree of independence and reliability
• Lead and support flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting workflowsfor ex vivo samplescollected 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.

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:

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

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]