Structural Biology & Biophysics Senior Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has approved medicines that treat the underlying causes of multiple chronic, life-shortening genetic diseases - cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia - and continues to advance clinical and research programs in these diseases. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases.

The Senior Research Scientist is self-reliant with a formidable record of accomplishments, independently identifying and solving tough problems repeatedly, across a number of critical and diverse projects. The Senior Research Scientist innovates proficiently and generates insights that influence research strategies and is regarded as an emerging expert in structural biology, biophysics, and biochemistry as an integral member of the Protein Sciences Department. This role will be on-site in our state-of-the-art research facility in San Diego.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• In collaboration with team members, make substantive hands-on contributions to strengthen Vertex' internal capabilities in Cryo Electron Microscopy (CryoEM), Cryo Electron Tomography (CryoET), mechanism of action (MoA) studies, and structure-based new drug design.
• Independently perform hands-on experimental troubleshooting and methods development to visualize macromolecular structures at a nanoscale resolution within their natural environment.
• Assist in the implementation of AI-based technologies to facilitate protein construct design and protein structure determination.
• Assist in the design and perform mechanism of action studies that impact critical project goals.
• Integrate and collaborate with different functions across the organization.
• May be the practical manager of CRO contracts or external collaborative research

Knowledge and Skills:

• Basic understanding in applying and developing emerging CryoEM, CryoET, and biophysical technologies to solve protein structures at atomic resolution and macromolecular assemblies within their natural environment.
• Basic understanding in applying AI-based techniques to facilitate protein construct design and protein structure prediction.
• Experience with multiparameter optimization of sample preparation.
• Established reputation with a track record in the field of membrane protein biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology.
• Demonstrated independent thought/creativity in science with attention to details.
• Experience in working with multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication (oral and written) in articulating goals, objectives, hypotheses, and results to the group and larger cross-functional project teams.
• Ability to navigate and be successful in a fast-paced, cross-functional, and multi-disciplinary work environment.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 2-5+ years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Master's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines and 8+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com