Stem Cell Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

The Stem Cell Research Scientist works with some independence and is adept at conceptually outlining studies to design and execute focused research projects or a series of complex experimental procedures including the development of human hematopoietic cell models and assays to evaluate targets and lead molecules for Vertex diseases. Completes work in a resourceful, self-sufficient manner and is able to design alternative approaches to achieve desired outcomes. Keeps current on the scientific literature relevant to scientific methodology or field(s) of technical expertise. This level captures both the Research organization’s entry level for staff with a research doctoral degree (PhD) and the advanced experimental expert leading one or more critical laboratory functions with high impact on drug discovery projects.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Designs and conducts elaborate, conceptually connected, multi-component in vitro and ex vivo experiments with primary hematopoietic cells and cell lines
• Collates and interprets data systematically, and synthesizes results into a cohesive body of conclusions or recommendations to guide Project decisions and new research activities
• Exercises solid judgment to prioritize studies, considering feasibility and Project impact
• Performs advanced experimental troubleshooting
• Scours relevant scientific literature and routinely incorporates new insights into research activities
• Identifies, prioritizes and introduces relevant emerging technologies in field of expertise to advance the existing technology platforms and create/maintain a competitive advantage
• Explores the feasibility of applying new scientific principles/concepts or implements and validates new experimental approaches and technologies to achieve project goals
• Contributes to patent and/or publication preparation
• Independently prepares study presentations and presents experimental conclusions at internal Group/Department or Project Team research meetings
• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to design and execute complex experiments including the development of human hematopoietic cell assays to evaluate targets and lead molecules for Vertex diseases
• Must have hands-on experience working with primary human hematopoietic cells and have experience developing and running multicolor flow cytometry and cell-based functional assays
• Experience with gene editing techniques
• Demonstrates astute understanding of own discipline and the relevant literature
• Maintains a high level of knowledge related to current developments in the scientific Project field
• Displays proven productivity and experimental creativity, and effective dissemination of ideas
• Demonstrates effective, self-sufficient communication skills, especially in peer-directed presentations
• Demonstrates awareness of other Project-related disciplines and an understanding of general concepts and some experimental detail within those areas

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related disciplines and 3+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related disciplines and 6+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range:

$104,200 - $156,200

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex 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.

#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.

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