Exploratory Biology Research Scientist

Job Description

The Research Scientist, Exploratory Biology will be responsible for identifying new disease opportunities that align with Vertex research strategy, designing and executing focused research studies to advance understanding of disease biology and target mechanisms, and contributing to informed go/no go decisions. This role will contribute to the development of biochemical and cellular assays, generate high-quality experimental data, and help shape new scientific directions through rigorous analysis and creative problem solving. The successful candidate will work with a strong degree of independence while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced discovery environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate novel disease opportunities that align with Vertex research strategy.
• Design and execute technically rigorous experiments to investigate disease biology and target mechanisms.
• Analyze complex experimental data and translate findings into clear hypotheses and next-step recommendations.
• Troubleshoot studies and refine methods to improve experimental quality, efficiency, and impact.
• Prioritize activities across projects and align work with team and company goals.
• Survey relevant scientific literature and incorporate new concepts or approaches into research plans.
• Prepare clear scientific reports and presentations for team meetings, collaborators, and leadership.
• Contribute to a collaborative, innovative, and scientifically rigorous team environment.

Knowledge and Skills

• Ability to design and execute complex experiments with a high degree of scientific rigor.
• Experience developing and applying biochemical and cellular assays.
• Strong understanding of related scientific discipline and relevant literature.
• Demonstrated productivity, experimental creativity, and effective problem solving.
• Ability to analyze multidimensional data and derive clear scientific conclusions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including peer-directed presentations.
• Ability to work independently, design alternative approaches, and adapt to evolving project needs.
• Awareness of related scientific disciplines and ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional environment.

• Experience with patient-relevant cellular models or disease-relevant assay systems preferred.

Education & Experience

• Ph.D. in Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline; with 0–3 years of relevant post-doctoral experience; or
• Master’s degree with 3+ years of relevant employment experience; or
• Bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of relevant employment experience.

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Pay Range:

$105,600 - $158,400

Disclosure Statement:

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.

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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