Molecular & Cell Biology Research Scientist

Boston - USA

Monthly Salary: $ 118500 - 177800

Posted on: 05-09-2025

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Job Description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is looking for a highly motivated Cell and Molecular Biology Research Scientist to join the Human Cell Models (HCM) team at the Boston Research site. The successful applicant will work with a cross-functional team to develop relevant cell models and assays to enable small molecule discovery screening and mechanism of action studies.

This role will require a creative thinker to propose innovative strategies using cutting edge technologies to crack the biology of challenging diseases. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated expertise in molecular cloning genome engineering and assay development and will thrive in a collaborative fast-moving research environment.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Design execute and analyze experiments independently while simultaneously working in close collaboration with team members
Build tool cell models via CRISPR/Cas9 or dCas9 to knock-in reporter tags mutations or regulatory elements
Generate and validate stable reporter lines using CRISPR knock-in and lentiviral transductions
Perform mammalian cell culture transfection and clonal selection (FACS antibiotic selection single cell cloning)
Develop and miniaturize cell-based assays (fluorescent luminescent FRET/BRET) for high throughput screening
Perform experiments and mechanism of action studies in cell models to address key questions related to disease or compound mechanism
Analyze and present results and recommend courses of action based on datasets to research teams in a clear and compelling manner
Be a key member of the HCM team and serve as a strong representative on interdisciplinary project teams

Required Experience:

Broad experience in culturing primary and immortalized human cell lines
Expertise in generating engineered cell lines using molecular tools such as CRISPR/ Cas9 dCas9 or flp-in systems
Demonstrated skills in designing plasmid and expression vectors for reporters and dCas9 systems
Experience with cellular assay development for protein quantification interactions and localization using luciferase technology Alphalisa FRET and/or Western blotting
Excellent record keeping and documentation skills required
Excellent troubleshooting and multi-tasking skills attention to detail and ability to work independently are required
Excellent communication skills and ability to work in a highly collaborative team environment
Background in python coding for bioinformatics NGS analysis or large assay data analysis is a plus
Experience working with primary or immortalized lymphocyte cell models is a plus

Education and Experience:

Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in Molecular Biology Cell Biology or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience or equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
M.S. in Molecular Biology Cell Biology or related disciplines with 5 years of relevant industry or academic experience

Pay Range:

$118500 - $177800

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.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertexs Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

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 persons 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

Job DescriptionVertex Pharmaceuticals is looking for a highly motivated Cell and Molecular Biology Research Scientist to join the Human Cell Models (HCM) team at the Boston Research site. The successful applicant will work with a cross-functional team to develop relevant cell models and assays to en...