Immunology Senior Research Scientist - Spatial Transcriptomics

Job DescriptionAt Vertex, we invest in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. Our growing Molecular Profiling team is seeking a Senior Scientist, Spatial Transcriptomics to provide scientific and deep technical expertise in spatial biology to support discovery, translational, and development programs. This role will be instrumental in driving mechanistic insights into disease biology, tissue microenvironments, and therapeutic response through spatial profiling of gene expression in tissue context.The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in spatial transcriptomics, tissue-based molecular profiling, experimental design, and data interpretation, along with strong cross-functional collaboration skills and a passion for technical innovation.Key Duties and Responsibilities:Lead the design, execution, and optimization of spatial transcriptomics studies to address key biological questions in disease-relevant tissues and model systemsLead efforts to characterize tissue architecture, cellular microenvironments, cell-cell interactions, and spatial organization of biological processesGenerate and interpret high-quality spatial data to derive biological insights that support disease biology, target biology, mechanism of action, and biomarker strategies Integrate spatial transcriptomics data with complementary datasets, including single-cell RNA-seq, proteomics, imaging, histology, and other molecular profiling approaches to enable multi-modal biological insightsDevelop, validate, and implement robust workflows for sample preparation, assay execution, quality control, and data reviewEvaluate and apply emerging spatial biology technologies to expand research capabilities and enable innovative scientific applicationsDrive adoption of best practices and contribute to establishing robust spatial biology workflows and standards across the team Partner closely with cross-functional teams across disease biology, pharmacology, translational medicine, biomarker sciences, bioinformatics, and clinical development to inform study design, data interpretation, and program strategyContribute to internal scientific strategy through clear communication of results, technical recommendations, and experimental insightsPrepare technical documentation, protocols, study summaries, and presentationsMentor junior scientists and help build a collaborative, high-performing team environmentKnowledge and Skills:Deep expertise in spatial transcriptomics and tissue-based molecular profilingStrong understanding of transcriptomics, RNA biology, tissue architecture, and cellular heterogeneityExperience with fresh frozen and FFPE tissue processing, tissue quality assessment, and assay optimizationFamiliarity with one or more spatial biology platforms, including sequencing-based and imaging-based technologiesExperience integrating spatial data with single-cell, proteomic, imaging, and histologic datasetsWorking knowledge of computational approaches for spatial data analysis, visualization, and interpretation, including proficiency in R and/or Python and familiarity with relevant analysis tools and workflowsStrong experimental rigor, problem-solving ability, and attention to data quality and reproducibilityExcellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a matrixed, multidisciplinary environmentEducation and Experience:PhD in Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience; orMaster’s degree with 6+ years of relevant experience; orBachelor’s degree with 8+ years of relevant experiencePreferred Qualifications:Hands-on experience with one or more spatial transcriptomics platforms (e.g., sequencing-based or imaging-based such as 10x Genomics Visium, Nanostring CosMx or similar technologies)Experience with histology, immunofluorescence, image analysis, and multiplexed tissue profilingExperience supporting drug discovery, translational research, or clinical biomarker development, ideally in immunology or inflammationFamiliarity with single-cell RNA-seq analysis and integration of multi-omics datasetsExperience in immunology and inflammation disease areasKnowledge of spatial proteomics or broader tissue-based profiling approachesPay Range:$124,200 - $186,400Disclosure 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:On-Site DesignatedFlex 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.#LI-OnsiteCompany InformationVertex 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 View email address on click.appcast.io: Seattle, WAType: Full time