Molecular & Cell Biology Research Scientist, contract

This is a 14-month maternity cover contract

Our Human Disease Modelling group is seeking an innovative and dynamic Research Scientist to play an important role in expanding our capabilities at the Oxford Research site. The successful candidate will help us utilize a range of technologies to test therapeutic hypotheses, discover novel target biology, characterize potential drug candidates and develop translational biomarkers. This position will involve working in close collaboration with other researchers and across drug discovery disciplines to ensure that we deliver medicines that treat the underlying cause of serious diseases.

General Summary:

The Molecular Cell and Biology Research Scientist works with a some independence and is adept at conceptually outlining studies to design and execute focused research projects or a series of complex experimental procedures. These may include studying disease biology in patient-relevant cellular models using appropriate readouts of the disease or target mechanisms under investigation. Completes work in a resourceful, self-sufficient manner and is able to design alternative approaches to achieve desired outcomes. Keeps current on the scientific literature relevant to scientific methodology or field(s) of technical expertise. This level captures both the Research organization’s entry level for staff with a research doctoral degree (PhD) and the advanced experimental expert leading one or more critical laboratory functions with high impact on drug discovery projects.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Designs and conducts elaborate, conceptually connected, multi-component experiments

Collates and interprets data systematically, and synthesizes results into a cohesive body of conclusions or recommendations to guide Project decisions and new research activities

Exercises solid judgment to prioritize studies, considering feasibility and Project impact

Performs advanced experimental troubleshooting

Scours relevant scientific literature and routinely incorporates new insights into research activities

Identifies, prioritizes and introduces relevant emerging technologies in field of expertise to advance the existing technology platforms and create/maintain a competitive advantage

Explores the feasibility of applying new scientific principles/concepts or implements and validates new experimental approaches and technologies to achieve project goals

Contributes to patent and/or publication preparation

Independently prepares study presentations and presents experimental conclusions at internal Group/Department or Project Team research meetings

Performs other duties as assigned

Knowledge and Skills:

Ability to design and execute complex experiments, including target identification, validation, and mechanistic investigation in disease-relevant contexts.

A broad working knowledge of fundamental biology principles.

Demonstrates astute understanding of own discipline and the relevant literature

Maintains a high level of knowledge related to current developments in the scientific Project field

Displays proven productivity and experimental creativity, and effective dissemination of ideas

Demonstrates effective, self-sufficient communication skills, especially in peer-directed presentations

Demonstrates awareness of other Project-related disciplines and an understanding of general concepts and some experimental detail within those areas

Education and Experience:

Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines and relevant post-doctoral employment experience

Strong cell biology background using a range of human cell systems, including primary cells, iPSCs, progenitor cells or organoids

Versatile molecular and cell biology experience, including PCR, sequencing, qPCR, Western Blot, ELISA, IHC, flow cytometry and/or other assays

Proven track record for solving complex scientific problems and delivering high quality results, supported by evidence of significant individual contributions

Strong verbal and written communication and team working skills

Motivated and curious; happy to work across a broad range of biological subjects and projects in order to identify the molecular drivers of disease

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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 .

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