Stem Cell Research Scientist

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is seeking a highly motivated Stem Cell Research Scientist to join our research organization and advance innovative therapeutic approaches for type 1 diabetes (T1D). In this role, you will contribute to the discovery and development of cell-based therapies by applying expertise in stem cell biology, islet differentiation, cellular assay development, and translational research. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical depth in pluripotent stem cell culture and differentiation, experimental design, and functional characterization of stem cell-derived models, along with a passion for translating cutting-edge science into meaningful therapies for patients.

This scientist will work closely with cross-functional partners across Pharmacology, Computational Genomics, and BSMO to support research programs spanning early discovery through preclinical development. This is an on-site role, with periodic weekend work required based on business needs.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design, execute, and analyze complex in vitro and ex vivo experiments using primary islets and stem cell-derived islet models
• Develop and optimize in vitro assays for phenotypic and physiological characterization of islet biology
• Execute extended stem cell differentiation campaigns, including maintenance, expansion, and differentiation of pluripotent stem cells
• Apply molecular, cellular, and biochemical techniques to characterize stem cell-derived models and assess experimental outcomes
• Collaborate with internal research teams to support translational and preclinical research objectives
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records and contribute to scientific reports, presentations, and technical documentation
• Interpret complex biological datasets and recommend scientifically sound next steps
• Stay current with advances in stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, diabetes research, and related therapeutic areas
• Support troubleshooting, protocol refinement, and continuous improvement of laboratory processes
• Contribute to a collaborative, innovative, and scientifically rigorous team environment
• Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to design and execute complex experiments, including the development of in vitro assays to evaluate novel cell therapy assets within T1D.
• Hands-on experience with pluripotent stem cells and directed differentiation protocols.
• Experience working with in vivo and/or ex vivo disease models.
• Extensive experience developing and running cell-based functional assays and standard molecular biology assays (e.g., scRNA-seq, flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry).
• Familiarity with omics-based approaches, including transcriptomics and single-cell analysis.
• Deep understanding of developmental biology or a related discipline, with strong knowledge of relevant scientific literature.
• Proven track record of scientific productivity, innovation, and experimental creativity, supported by publications in developmental biology or related fields.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Experience supporting drug discovery or translational research programs in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting preferred.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists or research associates preferred.

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or a related discipline, and 0–3 years of relevant postdoctoral employment experience; or
• Master’s degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or a related discipline, and 3+ years of relevant employment experience; or
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or a related discipline, and 6+ years of relevant employment experience.

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$104,200 - $156,200

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