Molecular & Cell Biology Research Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals

  • Boston, MA
  • $118,500-177,800 per year
  • Permanent
  • Full-time
  • 1 day ago
Job DescriptionVertex Pharmaceuticals is looking for a highly motivated Cell and Molecular Biology Research Scientist to join the Human Cell Models (HCM) team at the Boston Research site. The successful applicant will work with a cross-functional team to develop relevant cell models and assays to enable small molecule discovery screening and mechanism of action studies.​This role will require a creative thinker to propose innovative strategies using cutting edge technologies to crack the biology of challenging diseases. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning, genome engineering and assay development and will thrive in a collaborative fast-moving research environment.Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Design, execute and analyze experiments independently while simultaneously working in close collaboration with team members
  • Build tool cell models via CRISPR/Cas9 or dCas9 to knock-in reporter tags, mutations or regulatory elements
  • Generate and validate stable reporter lines using CRISPR knock-in and lentiviral transductions
  • Perform mammalian cell culture, transfection, and clonal selection (FACS, antibiotic selection, single cell cloning)
  • Develop and miniaturize cell-based assays (fluorescent, luminescent, FRET/BRET) for high throughput screening
  • Perform experiments and mechanism of action studies in cell models to address key questions related to disease or compound mechanism
  • Analyze and present results, and recommend courses of action based on datasets to research teams in a clear and compelling manner
  • Be a key member of the HCM team and serve as a strong representative on interdisciplinary project teams
Required Experience:
  • Broad experience in culturing primary and immortalized human cell lines
  • Expertise in generating engineered cell lines using molecular tools such as CRISPR/ Cas9, dCas9 or flp-in systems
  • Demonstrated skills in designing plasmid and expression vectors for reporters and dCas9 systems
  • Experience with cellular assay development for protein quantification, interactions, and localization, using luciferase technology, Alphalisa, FRET and/or Western blotting
  • Excellent record keeping and documentation skills required
  • Excellent troubleshooting and multi-tasking skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently are required
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment
  • Background in python coding for bioinformatics, NGS analysis, or large assay data analysis is a plus
  • Experience working with primary or immortalized lymphocyte cell models is a plus
Education and Experience:
  • Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
  • M.S. in Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related disciplines with 5+ years of relevant industry, or academic experience
Pay Range: $118,500 - $177,800Disclosure 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 DesignatedFlex 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.Company InformationVertex 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 ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com

Vertex Pharmaceuticals