Spring 2027 Co-Op, Protein Sciences

Vertex Pharmaceuticals•San Diego, CA

4d•$30 - $50•Onsite

About The Position

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a motivated co-op scientist to join its Protein Sciences team in San Diego. The team uses biochemical, cell-based, and biophysical approaches to characterize protein targets, assess target engagement, and investigate molecular mechanisms underlying interactions with potential therapeutics. This six-month experiential training program is for students pursuing an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. The co-op will develop and execute assays and contribute to protein expression and purification efforts. The role provides hands-on experience in experimental design, assay development, data analysis, and collaboration across scientific disciplines. The co-op may also propose and test technologies to improve workflows and support structure determination of challenging targets using single-particle CryoEM analysis. The co-op works under the supervision of a senior scientist. The program runs January through June 2027 and requires full-time availability, 40 hours per week. It is a paid, temporary position offered through a third-party agency partner; the selected individual will be an employee of that agency. The stated program compensation is $30–$50 per hour. The position is on-site eligible in San Diego, California.

Requirements

Pursuing an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
Familiarity with protein expression and purification or biochemical and biophysical methods.
Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow, document, and troubleshoot experimental protocols.
Strong communication and organizational skills, with a willingness to learn new techniques.
Legal authorization to work in the United States now and in the future; sponsorship is not provided for internships, co-ops, or entry-level roles in this part of the organization.
Must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2027.
Must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week, from January through June 2027.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on laboratory experience in protein science, assay development, or a related area.
Experience with membrane proteins.

Responsibilities

Develop, execute, and improve biochemical, cell-based, and/or biophysical assays to assess protein quality and target engagement.
Analyze and communicate assay results.
Express and purify recombinant proteins as needed to support assay development and research studies.
Propose and test technologies to improve current workflows and facilitate structure determination of challenging targets using single-particle CryoEM analysis.