Pharmacology Principal Research Associate

Job Description

General Summary:

The Pharmacology Principal Research Associate is responsible for delivering high-quality, independent research to evaluate the effects of compounds on ex vivo and/or in vivo disease biology. This individual demonstrates advanced technical proficiency, strong attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot and adapt methodological approaches. A key focus of this role is the design, execution, and analysis of flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments, particularly using ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies.

The ideal candidate will also have hands-on experience with basic in vivo techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple routes of administration (ROAs), perfusion, biofluid collection, tissue dissection/processing, and basic bioanalytical assays such as ELISA using serum and urine samples. While collaborating with their supervisor to set objectives, this individual maintains ownership of experimental design and execution.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and interpret in vivo experiments with a high degree of independence and reliability
• Lead and support flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting workflows for ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies
• Perform sample/cell preparation, staining, acquisition, panel optimization, gating analysis, and sorting with strong technical rigor
• Apply sound judgment to prioritize studies based on project impact
• Conduct basic in vivo procedures, including:
  • Animal handling
  • Dosing through multiple routes of administration (ROAs)
  • Perfusion
  • Blood and other fluid sample collection
  • Tissue dissection and processing
• Perform basic analytical assays, including ELISA analysis of serum and urine samples
• Perform basic statistical analyses of experimental data, as appropriate
• Independently troubleshoot experimental challenges and refine protocols as needed
• Contribute to publication and patent submission processes
• Prepare clear, well-structured protocols, study plans, and reports
• Stay current with relevant scientific literature and emerging trends
• Present findings effectively at internal group, department, or project meetings
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong technical expertise in flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting, including work with ex vivo samples from rodent and large animal tissues
• Demonstrated proficiency in designing and interpreting experiments to assess compound effects in ex vivo and/or in vivo disease models
• Hands-on experience with basic in vivo pharmacology techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple ROAs, perfusion, fluid collection, and tissue dissection/processing
• Experience with basic analytical methods, including ELISA assays for serum and urine samples
• Solid understanding of core biological and immunological principles
• Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret follow-up experiments
• Strong analytical skills, including interpretation of complex datasets and refinement of experimental protocols
• Proven reliability, particularly in high-impact or sensitive studies
• Effective written and verbal communication skills within area(s) of expertise
• Developing knowledge of related scientific disciplines; background in muscular dystrophy and/or cystic kidney disease is a plus

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in a biological science required
• Typically requires:
  • Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience, or
  • Master’s degree with 2+ years of experience

Pay Range:

$89,800 - $134,800

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