Discovery Immunology Principal Research Scientist

About the role

Vertex is seeking a highly motivated Discovery Immunology Principal Research Scientist to lead immunology discovery programs focused on autoimmune diseases. The successful candidate will shape scientific strategy, identify and validate therapeutic targets, investigate disease mechanisms, and advance early drug discovery. This role requires deep expertise in immunology, translational science, and experimental biology, as well as a record of leading complex research in a collaborative biotechnology environment. The position partners closely with teams in biology, translational sciences, bioinformatics, drug discovery, and project leadership. This is an on-site, laboratory-based role.

Responsibilities

• Lead discovery immunology programs from target identification and validation through mechanism-of-action studies and scientific strategy.
• Design, oversee, and interpret in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo studies across innate and adaptive immunity.
• Develop disease-relevant models, innovative experimental approaches, and translational strategies.
• Collaborate with chemistry, computational biology, translational research, biomarkers, and project management to guide programs and communicate findings to stakeholders and leaders.
• Mentor scientists and foster scientific excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Track emerging science, technologies, and the competitive landscape; contribute to publications, presentations, and conferences.

Skills

• Expertise in autoimmune, inflammatory, immune-mediated diseases.
• Immunology assay development, cell-based testing, and mechanistic studies; experience with immune–stromal cell or organoid co-cultures is preferred.
• Immune-cell profiling, flow cytometry, and multiparameter functional analysis.
• Molecular, biochemical, cytokine, and immune-signaling analyses.
• Target validation, pathway interrogation, and preclinical disease models.
• Familiarity with single-cell, genomic, proteomic, systems-immunology, or bioinformatics approaches.
• Strong publication record and recognized scientific contributions.

Qualifications

• PhD in immunology, cell biology, molecular biology, or a related life science; or a bachelor’s degree with at least 10 years of hands-on laboratory experience.
• Substantial industry or postdoctoral discovery research experience, including scientific leadership and ownership of early-stage programs.
• Deep expertise in immunology, including immune cell biology, inflammatory signaling, and disease-relevant pathways.
• Ability to design hypothesis-driven studies, interpret complex data, and translate findings into actionable program strategies.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in matrixed research environments.
• Experience mentoring scientists or leading research teams.

Pay

Base salary range: $140,000 – $210,000. 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 will be based on skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Generous paid time off, including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment
• Generous commuting subsidy
• Matching charitable donations
• 401(k) plan

Schedule

On-site designated role: five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility. Flex status is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.