POSITION SUMMARY:

Vertex seeks a Scientist to join the Vertex Cell and Genetic Therapies (VCGT) stem cell research group in Boston, MA. The group’s mission is to discover and actualize the next generation of cell therapies for Type 1 diabetes. We are looking for a candidate with an interest in pluripotent stem cells and developmental biology with research experience in signal transduction pathways, functional proteomics, and cellular response pathways. The candidate with work closely with the Stem Cell Bio team on several discovery projects across diverse goals related to our cutting-edge stem cell derived therapeutics. The ideal candidate is scientifically independent and accustomed to taking initiative. The position requires strong communication and organization skills, as well as proven adaptability and multitasking capability.

SCIENTIFIC AND NON-SCIENTIFIC SKILLS:

• Mammalian cell culture experience is required. Pluripotent stem cell culture experience (e.g., hESC and/or hiPSC) and 3D culture experience are helpful to be successful in this role
• Expertise in western blotting using Protein Simple instrumentation and other proteomic characterization techniques like ELISA assays, Luminex, and/or microarrays
• Standard molecular and cell biology techniques such as immunostaining, flow cytometry, RT-qPCR, and cell-based colorimetric or luminescence assays
• Must possess critical thinking and self-reliance to solve tasks independently
• Successful candidate will have outstanding organization and multitasking capability
• Proven track record of leading projects, both intellectually and at the bench
• Must possess flexibility to quickly pivot as projects demand

Preferred Edu c a tion and Experience Leve l s:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related disciplines and 0-3 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• Masters Degree (or equivalent degree) in molecular and cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related disciplines and 3+ years of relevant employment experience

• Perform human pluripotent stem cell culture using both 2D and 3D culture systems
• Drive discovery research efforts in dissecting cell signaling and cell stress response pathways to optimize stem cell-islet cell differentiation.
• Lead teams use of analytical tools to evaluate molecular characteristics of stem cells and/or their differentiated stem cell-derived islets (SC-Islets) in a variety of culture systems
• Execute SOPs and contribute to stem cell differentiation campaigns (periodic weekend work is required)
• Work with cross-functional teams to plan, coordinate, and execute experiments
• Present findings to group and broader T1D teams, collaborate to summarize data into reports