Research Scientist, Human Cell Models — Immunology & Molecular Cell Biology (Contract)
$124,800–$135,200 year
On-siteBoston, Massachusetts, United States
Job Summary
Design, execute, and analyze cell-based immunology experiments to support target identification, validation, and small molecule discovery. Develop and optimize in vitro human cell model systems using PBMC, lymphocyte cultures, and primary or immortalized cell lines. Perform multicolor flow cytometry, cytokine profiling via MSD and Luminex, and miniaturize assays including Western blot, FRET/BRET, and AlphaLISA for screening. Routinely run these assays to support medicinal chemistry design cycles and interpret biological data to communicate findings to project teams. Maintain rigorous experimental documentation and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure data quality and reproducibility. This role is a one-year contract at Vertex's Boston Research site, with a pay range of $60-$65/hour.
Required Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with PBMC isolation, enrichment and culture of primary lymphocyte populations (B cells, T cells, and other immune subsets)
- Immune cell functional assays
- Culture of primary and immortalized human cell lines
- Proven expertise in multicolor flow cytometry and immunophenotyping, including experience with complex panels
- Experience developing and executing cellular assays for protein quantification, protein interactions, localization, signaling, or reporter-based readouts using technologies such as luciferase, AlphaLISA, FRET, BRET, and/or Western blotting
- Experience with cytokine profiling platforms such as MSD and Luminex
- Ability to independently design and execute experiments, troubleshoot technical issues, interpret biological data, and manage multiple priorities
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present results clearly and work effectively in a collaborative team environment
- Ph.D. or equivalent degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline with 0–3 years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience
- M.S. in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related discipline with 5+ years of relevant academic or industry experience
Desired Qualifications
- Background in stromal biology, inflammation, immune cell activation, differentiation, and/or signaling pathways
- Experience working with primary or immortalized cell models
- Familiarity with Python coding, bioinformatics, NGS analysis, or large assay data analysis
- Experience supporting interdisciplinary research programs in a fast-moving discovery environment
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