High Throughput Biology Principal Research Associate

Vertex Pharmaceuticals • San Diego, CA

2d • $88,000 - $132,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is seeking a highly skilled and proactive Principal Research Associate to join our Human Cell Core, contributing to the development and execution of advanced human cell models at scale. The ideal candidate is an expert experimentalist who excels in a fast paced , team-oriented environment and operates with a high level of scientific rigor and independence. This role involves maintaining and expanding primary human cells at scale, operating automation-enabled cell culture platforms and executing functional assays to support cell optimization and troubleshooting efforts. Success in this position requires exceptional reliability, attention to detail, adaptability, problem solving skills and a bility to work in team oriented environment .

Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in culturing primary human cells or iPSCs
• Hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting laboratory automation instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of QC metrics, cell characterization workflows, and high-throughput assay principles.
• Proven ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills .
• Exceptional multitasking skills, attention to details and ability to work in a collaborative team environment
• Ability and willingness to work rotating weekend shifts according to business needs
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 0-2 years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 5+ years of relevant employment experience

Responsibilities

• Maintain and expand primary human cells at scal e , ensuring batch reliability and consistency across multiweek workflows.
• Operate , optimize , and troubleshoot state-of-the-art instrumentation and liquid handling equipment to support human cells at scale
• Conduct complex, rigorous experiments independently to answer critical questions
• Evaluate emerging technologies and methods and implement improvements that enhance throughput, robustness, or reproducibility
• Execute functional assays and interpret data to support optimization, cell validation and troubleshooting efforts
• Maintain high-quality, detailed digital records of methods, results, and system performance.
• Present experimental findings at internal project team meetings, contributing data-driven recommendations to inform next step decisions.
• Communicate effectively in team meetings, cross-functional settings, and written reports

Benefits

• annual bonus
• annual equity awards
• medical, dental and vision benefits
• 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)

What This Job Offers

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