Spring 2027 Co-op, Exploratory Biology

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); Boston (MA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free 24/7 onsite gym access and group

Subsidized commuter benefits

Provided meals—free breakfast daily!

Career development opportunities

Social events—intern-only and company‑

Location-specific perks

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated is offering a paid Exploratory Biology Co‑Op in Boston on‑site for 6 months. You will join the Exploratory Research team to advance drug discovery through hands-on molecular biology and cell culture work, learning to translate classroom concepts into practical experiments.

You will develop skills in cell-based assays, data interpretation, and scientific communication while collaborating with a multidisciplinary team focused on innovative therapeutics.

Qualifications

• Pursuing Bachelor's or Master’s in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, or related field
• Experience with pipetting, sterile technique, and general lab safety
• Knowledge of cloning, PCR, western blot, and mammalian cell culture
• Some prior molecular/mammalian cell culture experience in a research setting is preferred
• Experience with ML- or physics-based protein folding models is a plus
• Legal authorization to work in the United States; Vertex does not sponsor internships/co-ops

Responsibilities

• Utilize mammalian cell culture techniques to generate and characterize cell lines
• Utilize molecular biology techniques such as vector design, subcloning, and western blot
• Develop and perform cell-based assays such as HiBit and NanoBRET
• Deploy computational protein folding models to generate hypotheses
• Analyze data and assist in designing well-controlled experiments
• Document results in an electronic notebook per data integrity standards
• Communicate results to project teams and collaborators
• Collaborate and deliver on objectives in a fast-paced environment

Skills

Scientific curiosity

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biochemistry or molecular biology

Tools

Mammalian cell culture

PCR

Cloning

Western blot

Job description

Job Description Kickstart Your Career at Vertex! Are you ready to make a real impact? At Vertex, our mission is to tackle serious diseases and to change lives, for the better, for the future. Our aim is to give you the skills, insights, and career guidance to be an important part of that future; to turn your potential into progression. As a Vertex intern or co‑op,you’llwork on meaningful projects, collaborate with talented teams, and learn from industry leaders.We’repassionate about innovation, inclusion, and supporting your growth—inside and outside the lab.

Why Vertex? Real Projects:You’llwork on assignments that make a real impact, not just busy work. Mentorship & Networking:Connect with leaders and peers who want to see you succeed through professional networks, connections, and collaborations that will shape your longer‑term career. Flexible & Supportive:We offer flexible work options with Flex @ Vertex and prioritize your wellbeing. Inclusive Culture:Collaboration and inclusion are embedded in everything we do. Career Launchpad:Build skills, explore career paths, and get guidance for your future career.

Your Impact The Vertex Exploratory Biology Co‑Op is a 6‑month experiential training program for students currently working towards an undergraduate degree or an advanced degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biology, or other related fields. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth‑minded, a co‑op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Exploratory Research functional areas and serve as a launchpad for your career.

The application deadline for this co‑op is November15th. Please note that Vertex reviews applications on a rolling basis and reserves the right to close this job posting prior to the listed deadline. Applicants can expect to receive an update about their application before or shortly after the application deadline.

What you will be doing:

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated is offering an exceptional co‑op to join our Exploratory Research team in Boston Fan Pier (on‑site). We are seeking a scientifically curious and highly motivated individual to help advance drug discovery research in genetically validated diseases. The successful candidate will learn how basic molecular and cell biology topics from the classroom can translate into novel therapeutic modalities by participating in a research project on the underlying mechanisms of disease and points of therapeutic intervention. Hands‑on laboratory research will foster experience in developing and implementing innovative assays to interrogate therapeutic targets. Vertex is a leader in the indications of cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, neuropathic pain, genetic kidney disease, IgA nephropathy, and others not yet publicly disclosed.

Key Responsibilities:

• Utilize mammalian cell culture techniques to generate and characterize cell lines of interest
• Utilize molecular biology techniques such as vector design, subcloning, and western blot to investigate biological mechanisms
• Develop and perform cell‑based assays such as HiBit and NanoBRET
• Deploy computational protein folding models to generate testable hypotheses
• Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to the design of well‑controlled experiments
• Effectively document results in an electronic notebook in accordance with data integrity standards
• Regularly communicate results to project team and other audiences
• Collaborate and deliver on objectives successfully in a fast‑paced work environment

Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in: biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, or a related discipline; successful completion of advanced biochemistry or molecular biology coursework is strongly preferred
• Experience with basic laboratory practices including, but not limited to, pipette and liquid handling, sterile technique, and general laboratory safety
• Knowledge of basic molecular and cell biology techniques including, but not limited to, cloning, PCR, western blotting, and mammalian cell culture.
• Some previous experience with molecular and/or mammalian cell culture techniques in a research lab setting is required
• Experience with ML‑or physics‑based protein folding models is preferred
• Previous laboratory‑based co‑op research experience preferred but not required
• Scientific curiosity, a proactive mindset, strong communication skills, and desire to learn and problem‑solve in a team environment focused on drug discovery
• Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future.
• Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships/co‑ops or entry level roles within this part of the organization.
• You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before May2027
• You must be available to work full‑time, 40 hours per week from January–July2027

Program Details:

Full‑time, paid co‑op $20.00–35.00 USD/hour

Program Dates: January–July2027

Application Deadline: November15th,2026

Benefits

At Vertex, we believe that when you feel your best, you can perform at your best.That’s why our US benefits and global well‑being resources are designed to support you.

• Free 24/7 onsite gym access and free access to group exercise classes
• Subsidized commuter benefits- transit and parking
• Provided meals—free breakfast daily!
• Career development opportunities and events, including C Suite engagement
• Social events—both intern‑only and company‑wide
• Location‑specific perks and extras!
• Recognition of National Intern Day

Our Ways of Working

Flex Designation: On‑site in Boston

Flex Eligibility Status: 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.

This job posting is for a temporary role with a third‑party agency partner that provides services to Vertex.

The individual selected for this role will be offered the role as an employee of that third‑party agency; compensation, medical benefits, fringe benefits and other terms and conditions of employment shall be presented by the third‑party agency upon offer.

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.

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: $0 - $0 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.

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

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.