Pharmacology Principal Research Associate

Job Description General Summary: The Pharmacology Principal Research Associate is responsible for delivering high-quality, independent research to evaluate the effects of compounds on ex vivo and/or in vivo disease biology. This individual demonstrates advanced technical proficiency, strong attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot and adapt methodological approaches. A key focus of this role is the design, execution, and analysis of flow cytometry and cell sorting experiments, particularly using ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies. The ideal candidate will also have hands-on experience with basic in vivo techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple routes of administration (ROAs), perfusion, biofluid collection, tissue dissection/processing, and basic bioanalytical assays such as ELISA using serum and urine samples. While collaborating with their supervisor to set objectives, this individual maintains ownership of experimental design and execution. Key Duties and Responsibilities Design, execute, and interpret in vivo experiments with a high degree of independence and reliability Lead and support flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting workflows for ex vivo samples collected from rodent and large animal studies Perform sample/cell preparation, staining, acquisition, panel optimization, gating analysis, and sorting with strong technical rigor Apply sound judgment to prioritize studies based on project impact Conduct basic in vivo procedures, including: Animal handling Dosing through multiple routes of administration (ROAs) Perfusion Blood and other fluid sample collection Tissue dissection and processing Perform basic analytical assays, including ELISA analysis of serum and urine samples Perform basic statistical analyses of experimental data, as appropriate Independently troubleshoot experimental challenges and refine protocols as needed Contribute to publication and patent submission processes Prepare clear, well-structured protocols, study plans, and reports Stay current with relevant scientific literature and emerging trends Present findings effectively at internal group, department, or project meetings Perform additional duties as assigned Knowledge and Skills Strong technical expertise in flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting, including work with ex vivo samples from rodent and large animal tissues Demonstrated proficiency in designing and interpreting experiments to assess compound effects in ex vivo and/or in vivo disease models Hands-on experience with basic in vivo pharmacology techniques, including animal handling, dosing via multiple ROAs, perfusion, fluid collection, and tissue dissection/processing Experience with basic analytical methods, including ELISA assays for serum and urine samples Solid understanding of core biological and immunological principles Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret follow-up experiments Strong analytical skills, including interpretation of complex datasets and refinement of experimental protocols Proven reliability, particularly in high-impact or sensitive studies Effective written and verbal communication skills within area(s) of expertise Developing knowledge of related scientific disciplines; background in muscular dystrophy and/or cystic kidney disease is a plus Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in a biological science required Typically requires: Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience, or Master’s degree with 2+ years of experience Pay Range: $89,800 - $134,800 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: On-Site Designated 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. #LI-Onsite 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 View email address on click.appcast.io Help Us Achieve Our Mission Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has approved medicines that treat the underlying causes of multiple chronic, life-shortening genetic diseases — cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia — and continues to advance clinical and research programs in these diseases. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including APOL1-mediated kidney disease, acute and neuropathic pain, type 1 diabetes, myotonic dystrophy type 1 and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency . Founded in 1989 in Cambridge, Mass., Vertex's global headquarters is now located in Boston's Innovation District and its international headquarters is in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia, Latin America and the Middle East. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 14 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex's history of innovation, visit or follow us on Facebook, Twitter/X , LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram. The diversity and authenticity of our people is part of what makes Vertex unique, and we recognize that each employee brings diverse perspectives and strengths. By embracing those strengths and celebrating differences, we are fostering an inclusive culture where each of us can bring our authentic selves to work, inspire innovation together, and change people’s lives. Our vision is clear: to be the place where an authentic, diverse mix of talent want to come, to stay, and do their best work.