Vertex Fall Co-op 2026, Gene Editing Research

Vertex Pharmaceuticals•Boston, MA

2d•$26 - $50•Onsite

About The Position

The Vertex Gene Editing Research Co-op program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards a graduate degree in Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, or other related fields. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Gene Editing & Delivery functional areas and serve as a launchpad for your career. The application deadline for this co-op is April 3rd. Please note that Vertex reviews applications on a rolling basis and reserves the right to close this job posting prior to the listed deadline. Applicants can expect to receive an update about their application before or shortly after the application deadline. Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a 6-month Co-op to join the gene editing and delivery team. This position will contribute to our research efforts in non-viral delivery and gene editing to treat life-threatening diseases. The candidate will work with team members to test and optimize candidate molecules for tissue/organ-specific targeting. The ideal candidate is expected to have experience in protein chemistry, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and in vitro assays to analyze cellular uptake of candidate molecules.

Requirements

Ph.D. degree (degree obtained or currently pursuing) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, biomedical engineering or related disciplines.
Master’s degree (degree obtained or currently pursuing) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, biomedical engineering or related discipline.
Hands on experience in cell culture, protein chemistry (e.g. conjugation, purification and internalization etc.), bioanalytical methods (e.g. qPCR, Western blot, immunocytochemistry etc.).
Capacity to work full-time onsite in Boston, MA.
Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Please note that Vertex does not provide sponsorship for internships or entry level roles within this part of the organization.
You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before December 2026.
You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from July – December 2026.

Responsibilities

Test and optimize antibody conjugation methods for efficient protein labeling with small molecules and macromolecules.
Design assays to quantify protein internalization and uptake of LNPs in different cell types.
Maintain cell culture regularly to support in vitro assay development.
Screen and nominate new candidate molecules for tissue/organ-specific targeting.
Document study designs and experiment procedures using the electronic lab notebook.
Work in a cross-functional manner to learn new skills and disseminate acquired skills for effective teamwork and collaboration.
Present high-quality data to the team and department.