New

High Throughput Biology Principal Research Associate

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
paid time off, 401(k)
United States, California, San Diego
11010 Torreyana Road (Show on map)
Feb 25, 2026
Job Description Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. isseekinga highly skilled and proactive Principal Research Associate to join our Human Cell Core, contributing to the development and execution of advanced human cell modelsatscale.The ideal candidate is an expert experimentalist who excels in afastpaced,team-orientedenvironment andoperateswitha high levelof scientific rigor and independence. This role involvesmaintainingand expanding primary human cells at scale,operatingautomation-enabled cell cultureplatformsandexecutingfunctional assays to supportcelloptimization and troubleshootingefforts.Success in this position requires exceptional reliability, attention to detail, adaptability, problemsolvingskillsandability to work inteamorientedenvironment. Key Responsibilities: Maintain and expandprimary human cells at scale, ensuring batch reliability and consistency acrossmultiweekworkflows. Operate,optimize, and troubleshootstate-of-the-artinstrumentation and liquid handling equipmentto support human cells at scale Conduct complex, rigorous experiments independently to answer critical questions Evaluate emerging technologies and methods and implement improvements that enhance throughput, robustness, or reproducibility Executefunctional assaysand interpret datato support optimization, cell validation and troubleshooting efforts Maintain high-quality, detailed digital records of methods, results, and system performance. Present experimental findings at internal project team meetings, contributing data-driven recommendations to informnext stepdecisions. Communicate effectively in team meetings, cross-functional settings, and written reports Knowledge and Skills: Demonstratedexpertisein culturing primary human cellsoriPSCs Hands-on experienceoperatingand troubleshooting laboratory automation instrumentation. Strong understanding of QC metrics, cell characterization workflows, and high-throughput assay principles. Proven ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment. Excellent organizational and communication skills. Exceptional multitasking skills, attention to details and ability to work in a collaborative team environment Ability and willingness to work rotating weekend shifts according to business needs Education and Experience: Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 0-2 years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelors Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 5+ years of relevant employment experience #LI-KM1 #LI-Onsite Pay Range: $88,000 - $132,000 Disclosure Statement: The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law. At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more. Flex Designation: On-Site Designated Flex Eligibility Status: In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility. Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time. #LI-Onsite 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