Exploratory Biology Research Scientist

Research Scientist, Exploratory Biology

The Research Scientist, Exploratory Biology will be responsible for identifying new disease opportunities that align with Vertex research strategy, designing and executing focused research studies to advance understanding of disease biology and target mechanisms, and contributing to informed go/no go decisions. This role will contribute to the development of biochemical and cellular assays, generate high-quality experimental data, and help shape new scientific directions through rigorous analysis and creative problem solving. The successful candidate will work with a strong degree of independence while collaborating effectively across multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced discovery environment.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate novel disease opportunities that align with Vertex research strategy.
• Design and execute technically rigorous experiments to investigate disease biology and target mechanisms.
• Analyze complex experimental data and translate findings into clear hypotheses and next-step recommendations.
• Troubleshoot studies and refine methods to improve experimental quality, efficiency, and impact.
• Prioritize activities across projects and align work with team and company goals.
• Survey relevant scientific literature and incorporate new concepts or approaches into research plans.
• Prepare clear scientific reports and presentations for team meetings, collaborators, and leadership.
• Contribute to a collaborative, innovative, and scientifically rigorous team environment.

  Knowledge and Skills

  • Ability to design and execute complex experiments with a high degree of scientific rigor.
  • Experience developing and applying biochemical and cellular assays.
  • Strong understanding of related scientific discipline and relevant literature.
  • Demonstrated productivity, experimental creativity, and effective problem solving.
  • Ability to analyze multidimensional data and derive clear scientific conclusions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including peer-directed presentations.
  • Ability to work independently, design alternative approaches, and adapt to evolving project needs.
  • Awareness of related scientific disciplines and ability to collaborate effectively in a cross-functional environment.
    • Experience with patient-relevant cellular models or disease-relevant assay systems preferred.

      Education & Experience

      • Ph.D. in Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline; with 0–3 years of relevant post-doctoral experience; or
      • Master's degree with 3+ years of relevant employment experience; or
      • Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant employment experience.