Spring 2027 Co-op, Exploratory Biology

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

Benefits offered by this job

Onsite gym access

Free meals daily

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated is offering a six‑month Exploratory Biology Co‑Op in Boston to join our Research team. You will gain hands-on experience in drug discovery, working on a project that translates classroom biology into practical therapeutic strategies.

The role is full‑time, on‑site, January–July 2027, with a pay rate of $20.00–$35.00 USD per hour. Applicants must be enrolled in an advanced degree program and legally authorized to work in the United States.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree 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 in a research setting.
• Experience with ML- or physics-based protein folding models preferred.
• Prior co-op or lab research experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform mammalian cell culture to generate and characterize cell lines.
• Apply molecular biology techniques (vector design, subcloning, Western blot) to explore mechanisms.
• Develop cell-based assays including HiBiT and NanoBRET.
• Use computational protein folding models to generate testable hypotheses.
• Analyze data and assist in designing controlled experiments.
• Document results in electronic notebook maintaining data integrity.
• Communicate results to project team and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate effectively in a fast-paced research environment.

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

Molecular biology techniques

PCR

Cloning

Western blot

Vector design

Subcloning

HiBiT

NanoBRET

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology or Biology

Tools

Mammalian cell culture instruments

Molecular biology lab equipment

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’ll work on meaningful projects, collaborate with talented teams, and learn from industry leaders. We’re passionate about innovation, inclusion, and supporting your growth—inside and outside the lab.

Why Vertex?

• Real Projects: You’ll work 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 November 15th. 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 exciting opportunity for 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 May 2027
• You must be available to work full‑time, 40 hoursper week from January – July 2027

Program Details:

• Full‑time, paid co‑op $20.00 – 35.00 USD/hour
• Program Dates: January – July 2027
• Application Deadline: November 15th, 2026

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.

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.

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]