Research Scientist, Throughput Human Biology

Job Description

Research Scientist, High Throughput Human Biology

We seek a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join the High Throughput Human Biology (HTHB) team in the Human Assay Technologies group  ideal candidate will have experience with cell-based phenotypic assays, including work with complex cell types such as iPSC derived systems and primary cells.

Experience with miniaturized assays (384-well format) is ideal. Knowledge and understanding of HTS workflows, data analysis, and data reporting is necessary, as is familiarity with liquid handling instrumentation (e.g. Bravo, Biomek, Hamilton Star, or similar) and detection instrumentation (e.g. Envision, Phera Star, FLIPR, or similar). Experience with automation scheduling software, protocol design, or other programming knowledge is a plus.

Preference will be giving to candidates with a track record of innovation in the field. The HTHB group supports small molecule hit discovery and optimization for all disease areas in the Vertex drug discovery portfolio at the Boston site and the Research Scientist will be a member of multiple discovery project teams.

Approx 7 months (March – November), possible extension if needed

• Assist discovery project teams with the development of cell-based assays for small molecule discovery
• Miniaturize and adapt cell-based assays to automated screening systems
• Manage compound printing and documentation
• Execute large-scale small molecule screens for hit identification, as well as lower-throughput assays for support of medicinal chemistry and lead optimization
• Analyze and present screening results, and recommend courses of action based on datasets and discussions with biologists and chemists
• Propose and develop innovative approaches to phenotypic screening and small molecule discovery
• Be a key member of the HTHB team and serve as a strong representative on interdisciplinary project teams

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 3+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 6+ years of relevant employment experience
• Expertise in high-throughput screening and cell-based assays
• Experience with screening data analysis and small molecule drug discovery
• Ability to work well in a team and to collaborate across functional groups
• Self-motivation, organization, effective communication and presentation skills; adept in solving/troubleshooting complex problems as well as the ability to navigate a fast-paced work environment
• A desire to be part of a highly innovative company aimed at transforming the lives of people with serious diseases, their families, and society

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that aims to discover, develop and commercialize innovative medicines so people with serious diseases can lead better lives. In addition to our clinical development programs focused on cystic fibrosis, Vertex has more than a dozen ongoing research programs aimed at other serious and life‑threatening diseases. Founded in 1989 in Cambridge, Mass., Vertex today has research and development sites and commercial offices in the United States, Europe, Canada and Australia.

For four years in a row, Science magazine has named Vertex one of its Top Employers in the life sciences. For additional information and the latest updates from the company, please visit

$62-$70/HR

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…