Senior Research Scientist, Human Cell Engineering and In Vitro Disease Modeling

Job Description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Research Scientist to join our Disease Modeling Group. In this role, you will be responsible for the development of engineered human cell models and their integration into drug discovery workflows, supporting translational relevance and enabling the advancement of Vertex's pipeline. You will apply expertise in human cell biology, primary cell systems, iPSC technologies, and gene editing to develop robust in vitro disease models that support target validation, proof-of-concept studies, primary screening, selectivity and efficacy assessments, mechanism of action studies, and medicinal chemistry optimization.

The ideal candidate brings strong technical depth, scientific curiosity, and the ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams. This is a full time, onsite position in San Diego.

• Design, generate, QC and validate engineered human cell lines; perform functional characterization of genetic edits and prepare documentation for internal review.
• Establish and maintain quality control criteria for different cell types and disease model systems.
• Contribute to the design and development of human in vitro disease models that recapitulate disease mechanisms and phenotypes.
• Perform and optimize primary cell culture, iPSC differentiation, transdifferentiation, and gene-editing workflows.
• Collaborate with cross-functional project teams to integrate disease models into compound screening, target validation, and mechanistic studies.
• Analyze datasets, prepare high-quality experimental summaries, and communicate findings to project teams and functional leadership.
• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies in gene editing, cell engineering, and in vitro disease modeling.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of methodologies, tools, and best practices within the group.

• Strong ability to analyze complex datasets, review scientific literature, and formulate hypotheses.
• Demonstrated expertise with human cell based systems for disease modeling and therapeutic development.
• Extensive hands-on experience establishing iPSC differentiation workflows across multiple cell lineages.
• Proficiency with CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and its application in disease modeling.
• Hands-on competence with standard validation methods (RNA-seq, qPCR/ddPCR, NGS, Western blot, immunostaining).
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple high-impact projects in a fast-paced environment, with excellent prioritization and execution.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a matrixed organization.
• Strong publication record and evidence of contributions to drug discovery programs.

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, or related discipline and 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Master's Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 8+ years of relevant employment experience

LI-KM1

LI-ONSITE

$121,600 - $182,400

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…