High Throughput Biology Senior Research Scientist

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Research Scientist to join our dynamic team supporting the delivery of screening leads and pre-clinical compounds to advance our drug discovery programs. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in assay development, high-throughput screening, and small molecule profiling, coupled with expertise in advanced data analysis and machine learning techniques. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research projects, leverage technologies, and make impactful contributions to our mission of advancing scientific discovery.

This is an onsite position at our San Diego research site.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and validate cell-based assays to support high-throughput screening (HTS) and small molecule profiling.
• Lead the execution of HTS campaigns, ensuring high data quality, reproducibility, and traceability.
• Analyze and interpret large-scale data sets using advanced analytical tools and methodologies.
• Utilize software platforms such as GeneData and other common screening analysis tools to manage and analyze screening data.
• Develop custom scripts and pipelines to access, manipulate, and analyze data tables for advanced analytics.
• Apply machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to extract insights, optimize processes, and drive innovation in assay development and profiling.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including computational biologists, chemists, and data scientists, to design experiments and interpret results.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and trends in HTS, data analytics, ML, and AI, integrating them into ongoing projects.
• Contribute to a collaborative, knowledge-sharing team culture.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications to document and communicate findings internally and externally.

Education & Experience:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Computational Biology, Data Science, or a related field with 2-5+ years of relevant industry experience; or a Master’s degree with 5+ years of experience.
• Expertise in assay development, high-throughput screening, and small molecule profiling.
• Proficiency in analyzing large-scale data sets using tools such as GeneData, Spotfire, or similar platforms.
• Advanced coding skills in programming languages such as Python, R, or MATLAB to access, manipulate, and analyze data tables.
• Demonstrated experience applying machine learning and AI methodologies to solve complex research problems
• Proven ability to work in cross-disciplinary teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Innovative mindset with a focus on continuous learning and improvement.
• Attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work.

#LI-SV1

#LI-Onsite

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 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.

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 ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com