Principal research scientist development

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated computational biologist with a strong background in computational methods development to join Vertex. This position is part of a rapidly growing Data and Computational Sciences team focused on developing therapies for diseases with serious unmet need. You will play a critical key role in developing cutting-edge computational methods that assess the safety and efficacy of transformative therapeutics. You will also cross-functionally collaborate to develop robust and scalable workflows that address strategic questions across Vertex’s programs. A strong background in computational methods development, a proven track record in Python programming and infrastructure development, and an ability to seamlessly collaborate will be required for success in this role.

This is a Boston based, hybrid position requiring 3 days/week onsite.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop novel computational methods that address key questions regarding the efficacy, safety and integrity of cell therapies via NGS data analysis.
• Leverage and extend best practices from genomics, data science and software-engineering to create industry-leading analysis software.
• Collaborate with project teams and DCS members to identify key needs and questions that can be addressed using genomics.
• Maintain and develop cloud-based infrastructure and pipelines that enable scalable, reproducible and cutting edge computational genomic analyses across Vertex

Education and Experience:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in computational biology, bioinformatics, human genetics, genomics, systems biology, bioengineering, or a related field and 4-7 years of productive, relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or
• MS (or equivalent degree) in similar fields and 7+ years of productive, relevant employment experience, or
• BS (or equivalent degree) in similar fields and 10+ years of productive, relevant employment experience
• A proven track record of next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods development pertaining to variant calling, RNA-Seq, or related data types
• Strong programming skills in Python and one or more of the following languages: Rust, Java or C/C++, and proficiency with workflow languages such as Nextflow
• Strong organizational and time-management skills
• An independent, detail-oriented, and self-motivated approach to problem solving
• A team-oriented mindset that welcomes feedback and supports others
• Excellent communication skills that can be tailored to scientists with or without computational biology expertise
• Proven experience architecting and maintaining large-scale data solutions in the cloud, particularly AWS.
• Hands-on expertise scaling compute workflows with cloud services such as AWS Batch
• Proficiency in building and deploying containerized applications using Docker
• Strong background in infrastructure as code (e.g., Terraform, CloudFormation) for reproducible and automated cloud environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, implementing, and optimizing database solutions, including AWS RDS, Databricks, and Snowflake

#LI-KM1

#LI-Hybrid

Pay Range:

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:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:
1. Hybrid : work remotely up to two days per week; or select
2. On-Site : 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.

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 [email protected]