Molecular Biology / Functional Genomics Senior Research Scientist Full-time

Senior Scientist

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc. is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist to join our Molecular and Cell Biology Department in San Diego. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of human genetic diseases and applying this knowledge to support innovative drug discovery and disease modeling efforts. The successful candidate will utilize advanced molecular biology technologies, genomics and bioinformatics approaches to inform drug discovery strategies, guide the generation of predictive disease models and evaluate therapeutic candidates.

Responsibilities:

• Design and execute complex molecular biology experiments to investigate mechanisms of genetic diseases.
• Develop and implement state-of-the art molecular biology and functional genomics approaches, including CRISPR screening techniques, high-throughput QPCR, scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics to understand causal disease biology and identify and validate drug targets.
• Generate, analyze and interpret gene expression data using appropriate statistical and bioinformatics tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Computational Genomics, Cell Biology and Pharmacology to advance research goals and drug development programs.
• Present research findings at internal meetings to team members, collaborators and senior leadership.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and 8+ years of relevant employment experience
• Extensive knowledge and hands on experience in state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, PCR, sequencing technologies including Illumina NGS, Oxford Nanopore long read sequencing and others.
• Proficiency and hands on experience in CRISPR genome editing and functional genomics approaches.
• Experience with image-based as well as sequence-based spatial transcriptomics technologies.
• Strong background in human genetics and disease biology.
• Experience with bioinformatic tools and data analysis.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Innovative thinking and problem-solving aptitude.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Efficient multi-tasking skills

Pay Range: $118,500 – $177,800

Disclosure Statement: 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 in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation: On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status: In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com.