Process Development Scientific Associate 918 (Contract)
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Summary
The Contractor Research Associate will support process development scale up activities for the Type 1 Diabetes program. This role will support the execution of laboratory experiments, generate and document high-quality data, and contribute to the development, optimization, and characterization of scale up processes.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
- Execute laboratory experiments supporting process development studies
- Perform stem cell culture and in vitro differentiation in T-flasks, spinner flasks, AMBR250, and benchtop bioreactors
- Support development, optimization, and characterization of stem cell culture expansion and differentiation processes
- Prepare reagents, media, and buffers according to approved procedures
- Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot relevant laboratory equipment, including bioreactors, analytical instruments (Nova, BGA, Cedex, etc), and automated process equipment
- Collect, analyze, organize, and summarize experimental data; communicate results clearly to project teams
- Maintain accurate, contemporaneous documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks and other controlled systems
- Follow established SOPs, batch records, safety requirements, and data-integrity practices
- Support sample management, inventory control, equipment readiness, and general laboratory organization
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with aseptic technique, mammalian or stem cell culture, and stem cell differentiation
- Experience with 2D and 3D cell culture including bench-scale bioreactors
- Familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks, statistical analysis tools, and data visualization software
Work Environment
- Primarily laboratory-based role requiring routine work in a cell culture environment that will require use of personal protective equipment
- Occasional work outside standard business hours to support time-sensitive experiments including weekend work
- Ability to lift or move laboratory supplies and equipment consistently weighing up to 50 lbs assisted / 35 lbs unassisted
Contract Length: 6 months with the chance to extend. Onsite 5 days/week; Monday-Friday, weekend availability required.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related scientific discipline
- 0-3 years of relevant laboratory experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, cell therapy, or a related field
- Ability to follow detailed procedures and maintain accurate experimental records
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Effective written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while contributing within a collaborative team environment
Benefits
- Overtime pay eligible
Company overview
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a global biotechnology company headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1989. The company specializes in discovering, developing, and commercializing transformative medicines for serious diseases, with a primary focus on cystic fibrosis (CF). Vertex has pioneered breakthrough therapies including TRIKAFTA/KAFTRIO, SYMDEKO/SYMKEVI, ORKAMBI, and KALYDECO, which collectively treat approximately 90% of CF patients. Beyond CF, the company has expanded its portfolio to include treatments for sickle cell disease, transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia, acute pain, and has robust clinical pipelines in APOL1-mediated kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, myotonic dystrophy type 1, and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Vertex employs approximately 6,100 people globally and maintains research facilities in San Diego, California, and Milton Park, Oxfordshire, England. The company is publicly traded on NASDAQ (VRTX) and is recognized as one of the industry's top workplaces, consistently earning accolades for its innovative culture and patient-focused approach to drug development.