Research Scientist, Human Cell Models (Contract)

Job Description
Research Scientist, Human Cell Models (Temporary 1-Year Contract)





Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist to join the Human Cell Models (HCM) team at our Boston research site for a temporary 1-year assignment. In this role, the successful candidate will provide hands-on laboratory support for the development and execution of disease-relevant cell models and assays to deepen understanding of disease biology and advance small molecule discovery and mechanism-of-action studies.





This is a laboratory-based contract role for a scientist with experience in complex human iPSC-derived cell models and cell-based phenotypic assays, including a strong understanding of differentiation, scale-up protocols, and methods for characterizing iPSC-derived models. The individual will work closely with cross-functional teams and provide experimental support across multiple drug discovery programs.


The ideal candidate will be a strong experimentalist who is organized, collaborative, and able to integrate quickly into a fast-paced team, execute established workflows, troubleshoot challenges, and support project needs and timelines.








Key Responsibilities



Support the development and execution of robust human cell models that recapitulate key aspects of disease biology, including models derived from patient cells
Design, execute, analyze, and troubleshoot experiments with appropriate guidance and in close collaboration with team members
Support genetic engineering of iPSC lines, including clone generation, cell culture, and characterization
Execute established protocols and help optimize methods for scale-up primary or iPSC-derived models, to support small molecule discovery
Perform cell-based assays and mechanism-of-action studies to address key biological and pharmacological questions
Prepare reagents, media, assay materials, and other laboratory supplies needed to support ongoing experiments
Order, receive, organize, and maintain laboratory stock, consumables, and reagents to ensure continuity of team operations
Provide experimental and operational support to other scientists on the team, as needed, to advance group and project objectives
Analyze and clearly communicate experimental findings, including recommendations for next steps
Collaborate with scientists, project leaders, and functional partners to support project goals and timelines
Present data to research teams in a clear, organized, and timely manner
Maintain accurate records, documentation, and experimental tracking in accordance with team standards

Qualifications



Strong expertise in routine iPSC culture, maintenance, and characterization
Background in developmental biology and human disease modeling is essential; experience with neuronal differentiations is preferred
Experience with cell model development to support screening assays, including assay optimization, miniaturization, and/or automation
Broad laboratory experience in cell and molecular biology techniques including western blotting, qPCR, immunofluorescence, and ELISA
Experience incorporating AI tools into experimental work is preferred
Experience with primary human cell culture, including PBMCs, fibroblasts, and other relevant patient-derived cell types, is preferred
Experience with large-scale tissue culture or automation experience is a plus
Strong record-keeping, documentation, and data organization skills
Demonstrated troubleshooting ability, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Willingness to contribute to both scientific execution and laboratory support activities
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative research environment

Education and Experience



Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline with 1–3 years of relevant experience, or
M.S. in a relevant scientific discipline with 4–6 years of relevant academic and/or industry experience

Additional Role Information



This is a temporary full-time onsite contract position with an anticipated duration of 1 year
The individual in this role will be engaged to provide project-based scientific and laboratory support to the Human Cell Models team
This position may support multiple programs and priorities based on evolving research and business needs
Occasional weekend work may be required based on experimental timelines and project needs

Pay Range
$60-$65/HR


Requisition Disclaimer
This job posting is for a temporary role with a third-party agency partner on assignment at Vertex Pharmaceuticals (“Vertex”). The individual selected for this role will be offered the role as an employee of a third- party agency partner; compensation, medical benefits, fringe benefits and other terms and conditions of employment shall be presented by the third-party agency partner upon offer. The pay rate range provided is a reasonable estimate of the anticipated compensation range for this job at the time of posting. The actual pay rate will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, location and/or being pursued and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition, this role will be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements





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