Spring 2027 Co-Op, Protein Sciences

Vertex Pharmaceuticals•San Diego, CA

3d•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. The co-op will develop and execute assays and contribute to protein expression and purification efforts supporting these studies. The role provides hands-on experience in experimental design, assay development, data analysis, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, including the opportunity to propose and test technologies that may improve workflows and support structure determination of challenging targets using single-particle CryoEM analysis. This is a six-month, full-time paid co-op for students pursuing an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. The co-op will work under the supervision of a senior scientist. The position is on-site eligible in San Diego, California, and is scheduled for January through June 2027. It is offered through a third-party agency partner; the selected individual will be employed by that agency, which will provide the employment terms and benefits.

Requirements

Currently 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 ability to follow, document, and troubleshoot experimental protocols.
Strong communication and organizational skills, with 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 is desirable but not required.

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 new technologies to improve workflows and facilitate structure determination of challenging targets using single-particle CryoEM analysis.