Principal Research Scientist - Tissue Engineering

Job Description

Principal Research Scientist, Tissue Engineering

Location:

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Boston (Onsite)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join our Human Assay Technologies department in Boston as a Principal Research Scientist - Tissue Engineering. This lab-based role offers an exciting opportunity to lead tissue engineering and technology innovation by developing novel measurement platforms for complex cell models. The successful candidate will have a proven track record of engineering cutting-edge solutions to drive biological insights from 3D organoid models or organ‑on‑a‑chip technologies, with a focus on advancing drug discovery.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in biological measurement approaches grounded in physics, biophysics, and cell biology, with demonstrated expertise in technology development. Experience in immunology, miniaturized assay formats (384‑ and 1536‑well), and high‑throughput screening workflows is highly preferred.

• Design and engineer innovative technologies to measure complex biological readouts in immunology assay systems, with a focus on precision and scalability.
• Lead the development of next‑generation platforms for studying multicellular 3D organoid and organ‑on‑a‑chip models, enabling advanced biological insights and therapeutic discovery.
• Drive technology innovation by identifying and implementing cutting‑edge engineering solutions to enhance assay performance and throughput.
• Miniaturize and automate cell‑based assays for high‑throughput screening in 384‑ and 1536‑well formats, integrating robotics and advanced liquid handling systems.
• Develop and implement innovative phenotypic screening approaches to identify and validate therapeutic targets.
• Collaborate with Data and Computational Sciences to develop and apply data‑driven approaches, including AI/ML, for analyzing complex biological datasets.
• Propose and lead external collaborations with academic and industry partners to accelerate the development of novel technologies and methodologies.

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 4‑7 years of relevant post‑doctoral employment experience, or
• Master's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 7+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 10+ years of relevant employment experience.
• Strong expertise in biological engineering, including device development and technology innovation.
• Proven experience in high‑throughput screening, cell‑based assay development, and automation technologies.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in cross‑functional teams and collaborate across disciplines.
• Self‑motivated, organized, and innovative, with excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex engineering and biological challenges in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.
• A passion for engineering‑driven scientific discovery and a commitment to transforming the lives of people with serious diseases, their families, and society.

• Expertise in robotics, automation, and miniaturized assay development.
• A strong track record of engineering innovation and collaborative research in biological engineering or related fields.
• Familiarity with phenotypic screening and data‑driven approaches to drug discovery.
• Experience with integrating novel technologies into drug discovery workflows.

At Vertex Pharmaceuticals, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of people with serious diseases through groundbreaking science and innovation. As a Senior Principal Research Scientist in Tissue Engineering, you will have the opportunity to lead technology innovation, collaborate with world‑class scientists, and develop state‑of‑the‑art platforms that will shape the future of drug discovery.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed…