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 By applying for this position, you agree to the Atrium Terms and Conditions and you direct Atrium to share your application materials, which may include your CV/Resume, email address or phone number, with Vertex. For more information on how Vertex handles your personal data related to your job application, please see Vertex’s Careers Privacy Notice. Agreeing to the Atrium Terms and Conditions, includes permission to use the email address and mobile phone number you provide during the application process or throughout the duration of your prospective or actual employment to notify you of job openings, profiles, articles, news, and other employment-related information, as well as to notify you of special promotions or additional products and services offered by us or our affiliates and partners (collectively, “Atrium Alerts”). Atrium Alerts may be sent by email, phone, or text message. Your personal information will be safely stored within the Atrium & Vertex databases. Atrium does not sell your personal information to third parties. Text message and data rates may apply. To OPT OUT of text messaging or to modify your communication preferences for Atrium Alerts at any time, please contact Atrium at privacyadministrator@atriumstaff.com. If you do not agree with the Atrium Terms and Conditions, you can still complete your application for this position by emailing your resume to our team at tempstaffing@vrtx.com. Please include the job title in the subject of your email. No C2C or Third-Party Vendors