Spring 2027 Co-op, Human Cell Models - iPSC Cell Biology Research
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Summary
The Vertex Human Cell Models - iPSC Cell Biology Research Co-op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an advanced degree in molecular biology, biological sciences, biomedical engineering, stem cell biology, or a related scientific discipline.
Job description
The Co-op will join the Human Cell Models department within Vertex's Boston Research organization. The Human Cell Models group develops disease-relevant cellular models and assays that enable early-stage drug discovery programs. In this role, the Co-op will help to develop, establish, and characterize physiologically relevant iPSC-derived cell models for use in drug discovery programs for muscle disease.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and execute experiments to develop and validate iPSC-derived models that support project objectives.
- Identify and mitigate experimental risks, including cell line variability, to enable robust and reproducible model development.
- Culture iPSC lines; establish and characterize iPSC-derived cell models.
- Conduct immunofluorescence microscopy, gene expression assays, and related cell biology experiments.
- Troubleshoot and optimize methods to support protocol transfer across biology teams.
- Analyze and communicate experimental findings, including data-driven recommendations, to the broader team.
- Maintain accurate experimental records and contribute to a collaborative, detail-oriented research environment.
What you will need to succeed
- Currently enrolled in an advanced degree program, Master's (MS) or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience with cell culture and aseptic laboratory technique is required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate scientific findings clearly.
- Demonstrated critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Willingness to learn, take initiative, and contribute effectively in a dynamic research environment.
- Team-oriented mindset and ability to collaborate effectively with scientists and cross-functional partners.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate, thorough, and organized experimental records.
- 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
Technical Skills Required
- Mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique
- Windows and Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
Preferred Skills
- Stem cell and molecular biology knowledge
- Western blotting, gene expression analysis, immunostaining, and other cell-based assays
- GraphPad Prism
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an advanced degree program, Master's (MS) or PhD in Molecular Biology, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Stem Cell Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience with cell culture and aseptic laboratory technique is required.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate scientific findings clearly.
- Demonstrated critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Willingness to learn, take initiative, and contribute effectively in a dynamic research environment.
- Team-oriented mindset and ability to collaborate effectively with scientists and cross-functional partners.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate, thorough, and organized experimental records.
- 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
- Mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique
- Windows and Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Stem cell and molecular biology knowledge
- Western blotting, gene expression analysis, immunostaining, and other cell-based assays
- GraphPad Prism
Benefits
- Gym access
- Group exercise classes
- Commuter benefits
- Free meals
- Career development opportunities
- Social events
- Medical benefits
- Dental benefits
- Vision benefits
- Paid time off
- Educational assistance
- Student loan repayment
- 401(k)
- Matching charitable donations
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.