Associate Director, Stem Cell Research (Biotech)

Location: Boston, MA; on-site five days per week with ad hoc flexibility.

Salary: $169,500–$254,300 annual base salary, plus potential annual bonus and equity awards.

Company

Vertex is a global biotechnology company focused on scientific innovation and Cell & Gene Therapy development.

What you will do

• Lead the Cell Foundry team supporting Type 1 diabetes programs involving stem cells, islet cells, and immunology.
• Innovate, streamline, and automate stem cell expansion and directed differentiation processes, with a focus on stem cell-derived islets.
• Prioritize projects, coordinate experiments across cell types and cell lines, and support IND-enabling research activities.
• Analyze molecular characteristics of stem cells, differentiation intermediates, and stem cell-derived islets.
• Present findings through reports and presentations, mentor team members, resolve conflicts, and manage approved budgets.
• Oversee regulatory documents, publications, intellectual property filings, data integrity, and cross-functional R&D partnerships.

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline with 4–7 years of relevant postdoctoral experience; or a master’s degree with 7+ years of experience; or a bachelor’s degree with 10+ years of experience.
• Experience with human pluripotent stem cell culture and directed differentiation protocols.
• Knowledge of molecular and cell biology, stem cell-derived islet production, and analytical approaches for cellular characterization.
• Demonstrated cross-functional collaboration, team leadership, prioritization, and scientific judgment.
• Strong written, verbal, communication, organizational, mentoring, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work on-site in Boston, MA five days per week.

Nice to have

• Core management experience and a record of leading high-performing teams.
• Experience with immunology, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, abstracts, publications, or intellectual property.
• Interest in applying AI, technology, and automation to improve scientific decision-making and efficiency.

Culture & Benefits

• Continuous learning and encouragement to follow advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits with paid time off.
• Company shutdown periods in summer and winter.
• Educational assistance, student loan repayment, commuting subsidy, charitable donation matching, and 401(k).
• Inclusive workplace with equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodation support.