Spring 2027 Co-Op, Structural Biology & Biophysics

Vertex Pharmaceuticals • Boston, MA

2d • $20 - $35 • Onsite

About The Position

Vertex is seeking a curious and motivated laboratory co-op student to support its Structural Biology and Biophysics team. This six-month experiential training program is for students pursuing an undergraduate or advanced degree in a relevant scientific field and offers hands-on experience in laboratory-based drug discovery research, protein science, and biophysical characterization. The student will work alongside experienced scientists, receive guidance and training, and contribute to experiments that characterize proteins, assess molecular interactions, and support the advancement of potential therapies. The role is based on-site, with laboratory work as a core component.

The co-op runs from January through June 2027. Students must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week, for the full assignment. The role is paid at $20.00–$35.00 per hour. It is a temporary role offered through a third-party agency partner, which will provide details about compensation, benefits, and other employment terms upon offer.

Requirements

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, molecular biology, pharmaceutical sciences, or another related scientific field.
• Available to work on-site for the full duration of the co-op assignment.
• Available to work full-time, 40 hours per week, from January through June 2027.
• Interested in laboratory research, protein science, structural biology, biophysics, or drug discovery.
• Completed introductory college coursework with a laboratory component in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Comfortable following detailed procedures and asking questions when clarification is needed.
• Able to keep clear, accurate records of work performed.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to work independently on assigned tasks and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Authorized to work in the United States now and in the future; Vertex does not provide sponsorship 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.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in structural biology, biophysics, or pharmaceutical research.
• Exposure to structural biology or biophysics through coursework, academic research, laboratory projects, internships, or scientific literature review.
• Exposure to laboratory techniques such as protein purification, protein assays, molecular biology, analytical chemistry, or biophysical characterization.
• Familiarity with nephelometry, turbidity measurements, microplate-based assays, plate readers, or laboratory automation.
• Experience using Excel or similar tools to organize, analyze, and graph scientific data.
• Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, scientific documentation, or presenting project results.
• Curiosity, reliability, and enthusiasm for developing laboratory and scientific problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Support daily laboratory activities and research projects within the Structural Biology and Biophysics team.
• Learn and perform routine laboratory techniques under the guidance of experienced scientists.
• Prepare buffers, reagents, samples, and assay plates by following established procedures.
• Support biochemical and biophysical assay activities, including nephelometry-based experiments to evaluate sample solubility, aggregation, or precipitation.
• Collect, organize, and document experimental data using laboratory notebooks, electronic systems, spreadsheets, and reports.
• Follow laboratory safety, quality, documentation, and compliance requirements.

Benefits

• Free 24/7 on-site gym access and free group exercise classes.
• Subsidized commuter benefits for transit and parking.
• Free daily breakfast and provided meals.
• Career development opportunities and events, including C-suite engagement.
• Intern-only and company-wide social events.
• Location-specific perks and extras.
• Recognition of National Intern Day.
• The posting also describes Vertex-wide benefits, including medical, dental, and vision benefits; paid time off and week-long summer and winter company shutdowns; educational assistance programs including student loan repayment; commuting subsidy; matching charitable donations; and 401(k). Employment benefits and terms for this temporary role will be presented by the third-party agency upon offer.

What This Job Offers

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