Stem Cell Research Scientist

Job Description

The Discovery Research group at Vertex Cell and Gene Therapies is seeking a scientist passionate about stem cell biology to contribute to the team’s mission to develop future cell therapies to treat all patients with type 1 diabetes. This role will require a creative thinker to propose innovative strategies and implement new approaches to advance directed differentiation factor screening. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in stem cell biology, gene expression assays, and coding for data analysis, and will thrive in a collaborative, fast-moving research environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

• Culture and differentiate pluripotent stem cells, partner in designing interventions for protocol optimization, and measure effects on cell fate and gene expression.
• Visualize and interpret data in Python, and leverage structured data capture to systematically compile results over time.
• Present results and recommend courses of action in a clear and compelling manner, demonstrating solid judgment of feasibility and project impact.
• Identify, prioritize, and introduce relevant emerging technologies to advance technology platforms and achieve project goals.
• Maintain rigorous documentation of experiments and associated data analysis.
• Contribute to team cell differentiation studies (periodic weekend work is required).

Required Knowledge/Skills:

• Expertise in developmental biology and the hallmarks of developmental signaling pathways.
• Experience coding in Python to interpret and visualize data.
• Extensive experience culturing pluripotent stem cells or other mammalian cells.
• Experience both executing and optimizing directed differentiation protocols.
• Demonstrated skill in measuring gene expression by several of the following methods: single cell RNA-seq, bulk RNA-seq, qPCR, Nanostring, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry.
• Specific experience researching pancreatic organogenesis in vivo or islet directed differentiation in vitro is a strong plus.
• Excellent troubleshooting skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
• Highly self-motivated, proactive, and adaptable, with a passion for scientific problem-solving.
• Excellent communication and time management skills and ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment.

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 experience

Pay Range:

$104,200 - $156,300

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 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.

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