Immunology Principal Research Associate

Job Description

General Summary:

The discovery immunology research team is seeking a highly motivated Principal Research Associate. This is a laboratory-based role where the successful candidate will contribute directly to research efforts by designing, executing, and analyzing experiments related to immune mechanisms, target validation, and therapeutic development. The position requires strong attention to detail and ability to multitask while working in a highly collaborative environment.  

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Isolate, culture, and manipulate primary human immune cells and cell lines. 

• Design and execute experiments to interrogate immune cell phenotype and function, including cell-based multicolor flow cytometry and Incucyte assays.  

• Troubleshoot experiments and optimize protocols.   

• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data while maintaining accurate and detailed laboratory records.  

• Collaborate with scientists across discovery teams to achieve project goals.  

• Prepare data for internal reports and presentations for internal meetings.  

• Perform other duties as needed.  

Knowledge and Skills:

• Hands-on tissue culture experience, including the isolation and maintenance of primary human immune cells and human cell lines.  

• Experience with nucleic acid techniques to quantify gene expression such as PCR, qPCR, and RNA sequencing.  

• Experience with a variety of cell-based immunology assays to interrogate immune cell phenotype and function including multicolor flow cytometry and Incucyte assays.  

• Experience measuring soluble analytes such as by ELISA, Luminex, or MSD.  

• Critical thinking and self-reliance to solve tasks independently or ask questions.  

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.  

• Willingness and ability to work in a highly collaborative environment. 

• Foundational knowledge of immunology and an eagerness to learn new techniques and skills.   

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in the following software packages: Microsoft Office, GraphPad Prism, FlowJo and Methodical Mind Analysis Software. 

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 2+ years of relevant employment experience, or

• Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent degree) in biological sciences and 5+ years of relevant employment experience

Pay Range:

$92,900 - $139,300

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations.  From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

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 sta