Spring 2027 Co-op, Functional Genomics

Your Impact

The Vertex Functional Genomics Co-op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an advanced degree in biology, biochemistry, genetics, computational biology, or a related scientific discipline. If you are passionate, collaborative, and growth-minded, a co-op at Vertex will help you gain meaningful experience in our Research functional area and serve as a launchpad for your career.

What you will be doing

The Functional Genomics group advances multiple small-molecule drug discovery programs at Vertex by applying cutting-edge genomic technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, high-throughput pooled genetic screening, and computational analysis of complex datasets. In this co-op role, the candidate will contribute to generating gene-edited cellular models, developing disease-relevant assays, and executing experiments that drive target validation and mechanism-of-action studies. Responsibilities will also include performing cellular screening experiments, evaluating compound activity using flow cytometry and high-content imaging, and analyzing data to guide project decisions. Working closely with scientists across teams, the Co-op will analyze and interpret experimental results and contribute to advancing therapeutic programs at Vertex.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to study planning and oversee experimental activities in accordance with established protocols.
• Collaborate with Vertex scientists to conduct experiments of varying complexity using disease-relevant human cell models, as well as analyze the resulting data, and summarize key findings.
• Maintain thorough, accurate records of methods, observations, and results in an electronic laboratory notebook.
• Present results and key conclusions clearly to the Functional Genomics team and cross-functional project partners.

What you will need to succeed

• Currently pursuing a master's degree or PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Computational Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands-on experience with human cell culture/tissue culture is required.
• Familiarity with fundamental molecular biology methods, including PCR and cloning is required.
• Strong interest in and foundational understanding of genetics, genomics, and gene-editing technologies.
• Experience with flow cytometry is highly preferred.
• Experience using CRISPR-Cas9 for gene editing is preferred.
• Experience generating, maintaining, and characterizing mammalian cell lines, including clonal cell-line isolations and cell line validations is preferred.
• 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 June 2027.
• You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from January – June 2027.

Program Details

• Full-time, paid co-op $30.00-40.00 USD/hour
• Program Dates: January – June 2027
• Application Deadline: November 15th, 2026