Cell Culture Senior Research Associate (Primary Human Cells)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a global biotechnology company that is deeply committed to scientific innovation aimed at improving the lives of patients with serious diseases. With a focus on creating transformative medicines, Vertex harnesses the power of cutting-edge technology and scientific rigor to develop new therapies. The company fosters a collaborative and inclusive culture, emphasizing equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any protected characteristic under applicable law. Vertex also supports employees through comprehensive accommodations, ensuring inclusive participation and success in their roles.

The Senior Research Associate position in the Human Cell Core at Vertex Pharmaceuticals offers an exciting opportunity for professionals interested in working with advanced human cell models at scale. This role is designed for individuals who demonstrate a high degree of reliability, exceptional attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The person in this role will be responsible for maintaining and expanding primary human cells using automation-enabled cell culture platforms, requiring a mix of technical expertise and collaborative skills. This is an on-site position where the candidate will work five days a week on site with some ad hoc flexibility, ensuring teamwork and effective communication with internal groups.

In this role, the Senior Research Associate will engage in complex, multi-component experiments, independently performing routine troubleshooting and contributing new ideas to enhance cell model scalability and technologies. The role requires operating state-of-the-art instrumentation, including liquid handling equipment, which supports the scaling of human cells. The ideal candidate will have experience in culturing primary human or stem cells and working with laboratory instrumentation, including the ability to handle complex troubleshooting scenarios effectively.

Vertex offers a competitive salary ranging from $75,200 to $112,800, alongside an annual bonus and equity awards. The company further enriches the employee experience through market-leading benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time off including company-wide shutdowns during summer and winter, educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, a 401(k) plan, matching charitable donations, and more.

This role is suited for candidates with a Master’s degree in biological sciences or a related field with 0 to 2 years of research experience or a Bachelor’s degree with at least 4 years of laboratory research experience. Adaptability to a timeline-driven environment, effective communication skills, and willingness to work rotating weekend shifts and holidays as required by business needs are also critical attributes. Vertex values collaboration, attention to detail, and flexibility and encourages candidates who wish to contribute to innovative scientific advancements to apply.