Senior Research Scientist, Biomarkers

Job Description

General Summary:

The Biomarkers Senior Research Scientist is a strategic, hands-on scientist who designs and executes experiments to identify novel biomarkers, characterize biomarkers in human tissues, and develop biomarker assays for clinical use. This lab-based role requires a highly independent scientist who works with minimal guidance and has a good understanding of assay development and validation requirements. The candidate will advance the development of transformative medicines for people with serious diseases, by working closely with Biomarker Leads and colleagues in Research and Quality to deliver quality biomarkers that can be successfully implemented in clinical trials.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Works with colleagues in Biomarkers to develop, validate and implement innovative biomarker assays for clinical studies at Vertex.
• Conducts fit-for purpose biomarker assay development and troubleshoot technical challenges across different technologies and disease areas.
• Supports the generation and characterization of critical reagents of all assay types as needed.
• Partners internally and externally to evaluate new CROs, drive transitioning and monitoring of internally developed assays to external vendors according to timelines.
• Provides subject matter expertise for transferring, implementation and monitoring of assay development and validation.
• Generates and interprets biomarker data from assay development and validation and presents results at internal meetings.
• Develops knowledge in additional biomarker modalities and/or technologies.
• Leads development of innovative approaches to new assays based on emerging scientific discoveries, new technologies and program needs.
• Attends and participates in key team meetings, communicates and updates activities, deliverables and timelines.
• Maintains close contact with the Biomarkers leadership to communicate biomarker activities.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Extensive experience in assay development, including but not limited to: immunoassay, cell-based assay, genomic assay (qPCR, ddPCR, Next Generation Sequencing), and flow cytometry assay with specimens derived from various matrices (serum, CSF, PBMC, tissues, etc.).
• Strong background in immunology is helpful to be successful in this position.
• Working knowledge of assay development and validation under Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Clinical Practices (GCP) environment.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced and agile environment.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) and 2-5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Master's Degree and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelor's Degree and 8+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com