Spring Co-Op 2027, In Silico Modeling
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Summary
The Vertex In Silico Modeling Co-Op is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an advanced degree in Computational Chemistry, Computational Biology or other related fields. The co-op will develop in silico modeling tools to understand structure-function relationships for biologics therapeutics.
Job description
Key Responsibilities
- Build workflows for protein structure prediction and contribute on protein structure-function relationship understanding
- Utilize molecular dynamics simulation tools to evaluate protein-protein and protein-excipient interactions, predict macroscopic properties such as aggregation propensity, protein solution viscosity
- Leverage experimental data to further refine the model and workflows
- Evaluate Vertex pipeline molecules with established workflows as needed
- Report on project progress, write analytical development protocols and method development reports
- Maintain excellent written documentation (e.g. lab notebook and test forms)
Qualifications
- Ph.D. candidate or highly experienced Master's student studying Computational Sciences, Biology, Chemistry or a related field
- Hands-on experience with in silico modeling and structural prediction of proteins and antibodies
- Hands-on experience with molecular dynamics simulation and understanding of protein-ligand and protein-protein interaction
- Ability to adapt and be flexible with respect to working schedule
- Excellent communication skills with the proven ability to build open and collaborative relationships and work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team
- Familiar with modeling tools such as: MOE, Maestro/Schrodinger, Desmond, GROMACS, NAMD/VMD
- 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
- Ph.D. candidate or highly experienced Master's student studying Computational Sciences, Biology, Chemistry or a related field
- Hands-on experience with in silico modeling and structural prediction of proteins and antibodies
- Hands-on experience with molecular dynamics simulation and understanding of protein-ligand and protein-protein interaction
- Ability to adapt and be flexible with respect to working schedule
- Excellent communication skills with the proven ability to build open and collaborative relationships and work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team
- Familiar with modeling tools such as: MOE, Maestro/Schrodinger, Desmond, GROMACS, NAMD/VMD
- 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
- Commuter benefits
- Provided meals
- Career development opportunities
- Social events
- Paid time off
- Educational assistance
- Student loan repayment
- 401(k)
- Medical benefits
- Dental benefits
- Vision benefits
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.