Spring 2027 Co-op, Exploratory Biology
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Summary
The Vertex Exploratory Biology Co-Op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an undergraduate degree or an advanced degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biology, or other related fields. Join our Exploratory Research team in Boston Fan Pier (on-site) to help advance drug discovery research in genetically validated diseases.
Job description
What you will be doing
- Utilize mammalian cell culture techniques to generate and characterize cell lines of interest
- Utilize molecular biology techniques such as vector design, subcloning, and western blot to investigate biological mechanisms
- Develop and perform cell-based assays such as HiBit and NanoBRET
- Deploy computational protein folding models to generate testable hypotheses
- Analyze and interpret experimental data and contribute to the design of well-controlled experiments
- Effectively document results in an electronic notebook in accordance with data integrity standards
- Regularly communicate results to project team and other audiences
- Collaborate and deliver on objectives successfully in a fast-paced work environment
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, or a related discipline; successful completion of advanced biochemistry or molecular biology coursework is strongly preferred
- Experience with basic laboratory practices including pipette and liquid handling, sterile technique, and general laboratory safety
- Knowledge of basic molecular and cell biology techniques including cloning, PCR, western blotting, and mammalian cell culture
- Some previous experience with molecular and/or mammalian cell culture techniques in a research lab setting is required
- Experience with ML- or physics-based protein folding models is preferred
- Previous laboratory-based co-op research experience preferred but not required
- Scientific curiosity, a proactive mindset, strong communication skills, and desire to learn and problem-solve in a team environment focused on drug discovery
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future
- You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before May 2027
- You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – July 2027
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biology, or a related discipline
- Experience with basic laboratory practices including pipette and liquid handling, sterile technique, and general laboratory safety
- Knowledge of basic molecular and cell biology techniques including cloning, PCR, western blotting, and mammalian cell culture
- Some previous experience with molecular and/or mammalian cell culture techniques in a research lab setting is required
- Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future
- You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before May 2027
- You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – July 2027
Benefits
- Gym access
- Group exercise classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits
- Free breakfast
- Career development opportunities
- Social events
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Paid time off
- Educational assistance
- Student loan repayment
- Commuting subsidy
- Matching charitable donations
- 401(k)
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.