Stem Cell Senior Research Associate

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc (US); United States; On-site; USD 75,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. seeks a candidate to coordinate production of program-relevant cell types, including stem cell-derived islets, for use across research projects.

The role involves 2D/3D culture of pluripotent cells, differentiation for in vitro and in vivo studies, and strict adherence to best practices for reliability and quality control. The successful candidate will work in a team, perform bench experiments, record data in notebooks and electronic systems, and communicate results

Qualifications

• Masters or Bachelors in biological sciences with relevant experience.
• Experience with human stem cell culture and differentiation.
• Ability to work rotating weekend shifts.
• Strong attention to detail and record-keeping in notebooks.
• Proficiency with lab SOPs and protocols.

Responsibilities

• Culture human stem cells in 2D and 3D.
• Complete experiments reliably and consistently.
• Follow SOPs with high accuracy.
• Analyze experimental data and interpret outcomes.
• Record results in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
• Identify problems and propose troubleshooting experiments.
• Develop new ideas to improve workflows and efficiency.
• Communicate results clearly, both written and verbal.

Skills

Stem cell culture

SOP adherence

Team collaboration

Data interpretation

Protocol learning

Education

Masters degree in biological sciences

Bachelor's degree in biological sciences

Tools

ELN proficiency

Job description

Job Description General Summary

The successful candidate will work in a team setting and be responsible for coordinating production of program-relevant cell types such as stem cell-derived islets (SC-islet) for use across research team projects. This includes 2D and 3D culture of pluripotent stem cells as well as differentiation for in vitro and in vivo studies. A demonstrated strong understanding of best lab practices to ensure reliability, consistency, efficiency, and quality control, as well as dedication to lab bench work, are required.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Culture human stem cells in 2D and/or 3D
• Completes experiments in a reliable, consistent manner
• Demonstrates a high level of attention to detail and follows SOP strictly
• Performs initial analysis of experimental data and interprets immediate experimental outcomes
• Records experiments and results in laboratory notebooks (including all electronic systems) in accordance with lab procedures
• Recognizes problems and suggests experiments to troubleshoot issues
• Develops new ideas to improve workflows, consistency and efficiency of the cell culture processes
• Clearly and effectively communicates (both written and verbal) results

Knowledge and Skills

• Experience with advanced human cell culture techniques
• Teachable mindset capable of learning protocols to execute stem cell differentiations producing consistent high-quality product
• Ability and willingness to work rotating weekend shifts according to business needs
• Adaptive to a time-line driven work environment
• Multitasking skills, attention to details and ability to work in a collaborative team environment
• Work with cross-functional teams to plan, coordinate, and execute experiments
• Great interpersonal/teamwork skills and positive attitude
• Proven technical proficiency and demonstrated skill in conducting and interpreting experiments including the development of human stem cell models and assays to evaluate targets and lead molecules for Vertex diseases
• Uses technical knowledge to design and execute follow-up experiments

Education and Experience

• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 0-2 years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 4+ years of relevant employment 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

$74,800 - $112,200

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

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.

Help Us Achieve Our Mission

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.

Culturing and Values

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.