Spring 2027 Co-op, Human Cell Models - iPSC Cell Biology Research
About The Position
The Vertex Human Cell Models - iPSC Cell Biology Research Co-op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an advanced degree in molecular biology, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, stem cell biology, or a related scientific discipline. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Research functional area and serve as a launchpad for your career. The Co-op will join the Human Cell Models department within Vertex’s Boston Research organization. The Human Cell Models group develops disease-relevant cellular models and assays that enable early-stage drug discovery programs. In this role, the Co-op will help to develop, establish, and characterize physiologically relevant iPSC-derived cell models for use in drug discovery programs for muscle disease. Working closely with the broader research team, the Co-op will design and execute experiments, generate and interpret data, and contribute to robust, reproducible cellular models that inform drug discovery decisions.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an advanced degree program, Master’s (MS) or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience with cell culture and aseptic laboratory technique is required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate scientific findings clearly.
- Demonstrated critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Willingness to learn, take initiative, and contribute effectively in a dynamic research environment.
- Team-oriented mindset and ability to collaborate effectively with scientists and cross-functional partners.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate, thorough, and organized experimental records.
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future.
- You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2027
- You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – June 2027
Nice To Haves
- Stem cell and molecular biology knowledge
- Western blotting, gene expression analysis, immunostaining, and other cell-based assays
- GraphPad Prism
Responsibilities
- Design and execute experiments to develop and validate iPSC-derived models that support project objectives.
- Identify and mitigate experimental risks, including cell line variability, to enable robust and reproducible model development.
- Culture iPSC lines; establish and characterize iPSC-derived cell models. Conduct immunofluorescence microscopy, gene expression assays, and related cell biology experiments.
- Troubleshoot and optimize methods to support protocol transfer across biology teams.
- Analyze and communicate experimental findings, including data-driven recommendations, to the broader team.
- Maintain accurate experimental records and contribute to a collaborative, detail-oriented research environment.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Free 24/7 onsite gym access and free access to group exercise classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits- transit and parking
- Provided meals—free breakfast daily!
- Career development opportunities and events, including C Suite engagement
- Social events—both intern-only and company-wide
- Recognition of National Intern Day
- Medical benefits
- Fringe benefits
- Generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter)
- Educational assistance programs including student loan repayment
- Generous commuting subsidy
- Matching charitable donations
- 401(k)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
