Analytical Development Research Scientist

Vertex Inc. • Boston, MA

1d • $102,800 - $154,200 • Onsite

About The Position

Vertex is seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join its Analytical Development team in Boston, Massachusetts. The role leads development of analytical cell lines used as critical reagents for potency assay development, functional characterization, and analytical control strategy. It also develops, optimizes, and validates bioassays supporting characterization of biologics and other complex biologic modalities. Working at the interface between Research and Analytical Development, the Scientist translates product mechanisms of action into scientifically sound, phase-appropriate cell line and assay strategies.

The position combines analytical cell line development, bioassay development and validation, data analysis, technical documentation, and cross-functional collaboration. The Scientist represents Analytical Development on program teams, provides technical guidance to associates, and identifies workflow improvements that increase assay robustness and reduce development timelines. Vertex encourages employees to stay informed about advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends, and to thoughtfully apply new capabilities to improve scientific workflows and outcomes.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a biology-related discipline, with 0–3 years of relevant industry experience in biologics analytical development, bioassay development, cell line engineering, or functional characterization; or a master's degree in a biology-related scientific discipline and 3 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience; or a bachelor's degree in a biology-related scientific discipline and 6 years of biopharmaceutical industry experience.
• Experience developing analytical cell lines and cell-based potency or functional assays to support biologics development.
• Strong understanding of receptor biology, cellular signaling, reporter systems, mechanisms of action, and their application to potency assay design.
• Proven proficiency in plate-based assays, including ELISA, reporter gene assays, cytotoxicity, ADCC, CDC, and other bioassay readouts.
• Familiarity with statistical tools and data analysis software such as JMP, GraphPad Prism, SoftMax Pro, and other bioassay data analysis software.
• Knowledge of USP, FDA, and ICH guidelines governing bioassay development and validation.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, competing priorities, and required timelines.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities, with attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex data to diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and deliver objectives within preset timelines.
• Openness to using digital, automation, and AI-enabled tools to improve data analysis, documentation, knowledge management, and scientific workflows.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with flow cytometry, qPCR, or ddPCR.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, characterization, and lifecycle management of stable mammalian analytical cell lines expressing targets of interest, receptor systems, or reporter constructs for potency and functional bioassays.
• Manage CROs developing cell lines for bioassays; provide technical guidance, align work with project goals and timelines, and troubleshoot cell line development and maintenance challenges.
• Translate product mechanisms of action into cell line designs and cell-based assay concepts aligned with potency and analytical control strategies.
• Develop and support cell-based bioassays, including reporter gene, signaling pathway, proliferation, cytotoxicity, and other mechanism-based functional readouts.
• Contribute to early-stage potency assay development and maintain technical continuity with late-stage potency, validation, transfer, and QC implementation strategies.
• Evaluate assay and cell line performance, including sensitivity, specificity, robustness, stability, reproducibility, and fitness for intended use.
• Lead or contribute to technical transfers to internal laboratories, external partners, vendors, or quality control functions, providing technical rationale and knowledge.
• Independently design and execute complex experimental plans, interpret data, identify technical risks, and recommend scientifically justified solutions.
• Author and review technical reports, protocols, method documents, cell line characterization packages, technology transfer documents, and CMC source documentation supporting regulatory submissions.
• Ensure cell line generation, assay development, documentation, and data packages align with applicable quality and compliance expectations, good documentation practices, and data integrity principles.
• Represent Analytical Development on cross-functional program teams and provide technical input on potency strategy, functional characterization, cell line suitability, and control strategy.
• Mentor associates through technical guidance, experimental design review, data interpretation, and development of scientific judgment.
• Identify opportunities to improve workflows, increase assay robustness, and reduce development timelines.

Benefits

• Annual bonus and annual equity awards.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off, including a week-long company shutdown in the summer and winter.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Commuting subsidy.
• Matching charitable donations.
• 401(k).
• Some roles may be eligible for overtime pay in accordance with federal and state requirements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level