Pathology Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic, hands-on, collaborative experienced Senior Scientist to join the Histopathology team within Preclinical Safety Assessment (PSA) located at Boston site.  PSA is a global function responsible for the design and conduct of comprehensive nonclinical safety programs at all stages of discovery and development.   The Histopathology team supports animal model development and efficacy studies to enable the evaluation of candidate therapeutic agents.

Pathobiology Research Scientist will perform routine and specialized histology techniques, wet lab work, data acquisition and compilation using state-of-the-art molecular pathology techniques. The incumbent will interface closely with other scientists, veterinary pathologists and histotechnologists in PSA as well as other cross-functional project teams to provide timely, high-quality data to support multiple projects across our drug development pipeline.  This role is ideal for a scientist with hands-on experience in multiplex immunoassay platforms and a strong background in bioanalytical methods, biomarker analysis, molecular pathology, and translational research.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct routine histology techniques including tissue processing, trimming of tissues of diverse origin, embedding, paraffin block microtomy and cryo-sectioning 
• Set up and perform routine pathology staining techniques including H&E, IHC and special stains using manual and automated platforms (Ventana and Leica). 
• Perform routine whole-slide brightfield and fluorescent scanning for morphometric analysis  
• Maintain detailed and accurate laboratory records, follow good laboratory and GLP-like practices and ensure proper archiving of pathology specimens 
• Contribute to the generation and authorship of SOPs, technical documents, presentations, and ELN documentation
• Organize, compile, and summarize assay and image analysis results to support interpretation and timely communication with team members
• Work closely with board-certified anatomic pathologists to review, QC, and share results with stakeholders.  

Knowledge and Skills

• Excellent histology skills including embedding, staining, scanning and digital pathology platforms are preferred. 
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize and provide timely, high-quality results on multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills are required

Other requirements

• Prior industry experience performing hands on multiplex assays (IF, IHC, and RNAscope) is strongly preferred
• Knowledge and experience with image review, annotation, and visual data analysis using image analysis software is preferred  
• Familiarity with machine learning datasets and/or computer vision applications is a plus

Education and Experience

• MS in Biological Sciences or a related discipline with 7+ years of relevant research or industry experience in research or pharmaceutical-based histology laboratory.   
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and collaborative, with a willingness to share knowledge and contribute broadly across teams

Pay Range:

$105,600 - $158,400

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.  

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Onsite

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