Exploratory Biology Research Scientist

Location: San Diego, CA, United States. On-site designated role requiring work five days per week on-site, with ad hoc flexibility.

Base salary: $105,600–$158,400 per year, plus eligibility for an annual bonus and annual equity awards.

Company

Vertex is a global biotechnology company focused on scientific innovation.

What you will do

• Identify and evaluate new disease opportunities aligned with research strategy.
• Design and execute rigorous experiments investigating disease biology and target mechanisms.
• Develop and apply biochemical and cellular assays to generate high-quality experimental data.
• Analyze multidimensional data and translate findings into hypotheses and next-step recommendations.
• Troubleshoot studies, refine methods, and prioritize activities across projects.
• Prepare scientific reports and presentations for teams, collaborators, and leadership.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline, with 0–3 years of relevant postdoctoral experience; or a master’s degree with 3+ years of relevant employment experience; or a bachelor’s degree with 6+ years of relevant employment experience.
• Ability to design and execute complex experiments with scientific rigor.
• Experience developing and applying biochemical and cellular assays.
• Ability to analyze complex experimental data and derive clear scientific conclusions.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including peer-directed presentations.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

Nice to have

• Experience with patient-relevant cellular models or disease-relevant assay systems.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative, innovative, and scientifically rigorous discovery environment.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off, including week-long summer and winter company shutdowns.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, and 401(k).