Spring 2027 Co-op, Functional Genomics

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); Boston (MA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free onsite gym

Commuter benefits

Meals provided

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Vertex is seeking a Functional Genomics Co-op to contribute to gene-editing projects using CRISPR-Cas9 and disease-relevant human cell models. You will perform cellular assays, analyze data, and collaborate across teams to drive target validation.

Applicants must be enrolled in an advanced degree program and able to work full-time from January to June 2027. The program offers on-site, paid experience with a competitive hourly wage, and a path toward career development in Vertex’s research

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a master’s degree or PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Computational Biology, or a related scientific discipline.

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 and analyze data.
• 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.

Skills

Human cell culture

PCR & cloning

Flow cytometry

CRISPR-Cas9 editing

Data interpretation

Education

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

Tools

CRISPR editing tools

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 Functional Genomics Co-op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, computational biology, or a related scientific discipline. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth‑minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Research functional area and serve as a launchpad for your career. The application deadline for this co‑op is November 15th, 2026. 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:

The Functional Genomics group advances multiple small‑molecule drug discovery programs at Vertex by applying cutting‑edge genomic technologies, including CRISPR‑Cas9 gene editing, high‑throughput pooled genetic screening, and computational analysis of complex datasets. In this co‑op role, the candidate will contribute to generating gene‑edited cellular models, developing disease‑relevant assays, and executing experiments that drive target validation and mechanism‑of‑action studies. Responsibilities will also include performing cellular screening experiments, evaluating compound activity using flow cytometry and high‑content imaging, and analyzing data to guide project decisions. Working closely with scientists across teams, the Co-op will analyze and interpret experimental results and contribute to advancing therapeutic programs at Vertex.

Key Responsibilities:

• Contribute to study planning and oversee experimental activities in accordance with established protocols.
• Collaborate with Vertex scientists to conduct experiments of varying complexity using disease‑relevant human cell models, as well as analyze the resulting data, and summarize key 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.

What you will need to succeed:

• 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.
• Familiarity with fundamental molecular biology methods, including PCR and cloning is required.
• Strong interest in 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, 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 June 2027
• You must be available to work full‑time, 40 hours per week from January - June 2027

Program Details:

• Full‑time, paid co‑op $30.00-40.00 USD/hour
• Program Dates: January - June 2027
• Application Deadline: November 15th, 2026

Flex Eligibility Status:

This role is designated as the following: 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.

Combined Pay & Temp Status Disclosure (FOR REMOTE AND/OR CALIFORNIA BASED ROLES):

Pay Range 30.00-40.00 USD/hour

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.

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

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.