Immunology Principal Research Associate

Vertex Pharmaceuticals • Seattle, WA

6h • Onsite

About The Position

General Summary: The discovery immunology research team is seeking a highly motivated Principal Research Associate. This is a laboratory-based role where the successful candidate will contribute directly to research efforts by designing, executing, and analyzing experiments related to immune mechanisms, target validation, and therapeutic development. The position requires strong attention to detail and ability to multitask while working in a highly collaborative environment.

Requirements

• Hands-on tissue culture experience, including the isolation and maintenance of primary human immune cells and human cell lines.
• Experience with nucleic acid techniques to quantify gene expression such as PCR, qPCR, and RNA sequencing.
• Experience with a variety of cell-based immunology assays to interrogate immune cell phenotype and function including multicolor flow cytometry and Incucyte assays.
• Experience measuring soluble analytes such as by ELISA, Luminex, or MSD.
• Critical thinking and self-reliance to solve tasks independently or ask questions.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Willingness and ability to work in a highly collaborative environment.
• Foundational knowledge of immunology and an eagerness to learn new techniques and skills.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in the following software packages: Microsoft Office, GraphPad Prism, FlowJo and Methodical Mind Analysis Software.
• Master’s degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 2+ years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 5+ years of relevant employment experience

Responsibilities

• Isolate, culture, and manipulate primary human immune cells and cell lines.
• Design and execute experiments to interrogate immune cell phenotype and function, including cell-based multicolor flow cytometry and Incucyte assays.
• Troubleshoot experiments and optimize protocols.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data while maintaining accurate and detailed laboratory records.
• Collaborate with scientists across discovery teams to achieve project goals.
• Prepare data for internal reports and presentations for internal meetings.
• Perform other duties as needed.

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
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees