Biomarkers Senior Research Lab Scientist (Ligand Binding Assays)

Role Summary

Vertex is seeking a strategic, hands-on Biomarkers Senior Research Lab Scientist to develop and optimize biomarker assays for clinical trials at Vertex. The candidate will design and execute experiments within our laboratory to identify and characterize novel biomarkers in human biofluids and tissues. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly independent scientist who thrives in a fast-paced, agile environment and brings strong assay development and validation expertise. In this role, you will work closely with Research, Quality, and Biomarker Leads to support alignment across ongoing biomarker research activities.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Design and execute method development activities for innovative biomarker assays intended for use as primary, secondary, or exploratory endpoints in clinical trials
• Evaluate assay feasibility and strategies for the measurement of novel biomarkers in relevant biological matrices, including human biofluids and tissues
• Troubleshoot technical challenges related to assay development, validation, and implementation across technologies and disease areas
• Support the generation and characterization of critical reagents across assay types as needed
• Partner internally and externally to evaluate CROs and support transfer, validation, and implementation of internally developed assays with external vendors
• Generate and analyze experimental data, and interpret and present results to internal stakeholders and project teams
• Collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams to support biomarker research goals

Required Education And Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent degree with 2–5 years of relevant post-doctoral employment experience, or Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant employment experience, or Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of relevant employment experience
• Prior hands-on experience developing ligand binding assays for translational or clinical applications
• Experience developing and validating assays, with working knowledge of assay validation expectations and fit-for-purpose principles under Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Good Clinical Practices (GCP) environments
• Strong laboratory experience in molecular biology and cell biology
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with proven ability to work effectively as a member of a multidisciplinary team
• Strong scientific independence and ability to work with minimal guidance

Technical Skills Required

• Extensive method development and validation experience in ligand binding assays, including immunoassays and ELISA
• Biomarker assay development, optimization, and troubleshooting
• Western blot
• Protein labeling and quantification
• Molecular biology techniques
• Cell biology techniques
• Data interpretation and presentation

Preferred Skills

• Experience with cell culture and cell-based assays
• Experience with genomic assays such as qPCR, ddPCR, and NGS
• Experience with flow cytometry assays
• Experience supporting external collaborations and CRO assay transfer activities
• Understanding of translational medicine and biomarker strategy in clinical development

Benefits

• Opportunities to work on innovative biomarker research that supports clinical development
• Cross-functional collaboration with Research, Quality, and Biomarker leadership
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive employee benefits

Pay

$120,000 - $180,000

Schedule

On-Site designated role; you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.