Principal Research Associate - Cell Analytical Development (Contract)

Job Description The cell and gene analytical technologies team within Vertex cell and genetic therapies (VCGT) is seeking an individual for 6-month contract who can serve as a key contributor in expanding our testing capabilities and supporting routine analytical activities. The ideal candidate will have experience with a range of cell-based and plate-based analytical methods, strong troubleshooting skills, and a thorough understanding of SOPs and report documentation. Extensive handson experience with cell therapies is preferred. This individual will collaborate and coordinate across cross-functional teams, including Process Development, Manufacturing, and Quality, to support the development of Cell and Gene Therapy processes and products. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Actively involved in routine testing to support process development and characterization and release assays for identity, potency, genome profiling and impurities for Vertex preclinical, clinical and next generation cell therapy programs. Perform sample testing for analytical development team by using a variety of techniques; (e.g- Flow Cytometry, Cell culture, ELISA, MSD, PCR, residual impurity characterization. Report on project progress and reports or present data effectively at internal group or project team meetings as needed. Communicate cross functionally across teams to ensure the sample testing is effectively coordinated. Coordinate shipment handling, including receiving, logging, and distributing samples and reagents from internal and external sources. Manage and monitor inventory for samples and reagents across multiple projects to ensure accuracy, traceability, and availability. Contribute to data management activities by maintaining accurate records and supporting the timely completion of deliverables. Support daily Benchling activities related to inventory control, sample tracking, and record maintenance. Support Monday to Friday with occasional weekends, and second shift/late evening coverage as required for process and analytical development teams on several assays as required and flexible to travel between sites within 2.0 mile distance. Be a strong team player contributing to group priorities and deliverables. Maintain excellent written documentation of completed experiment (ELN) and maintain knowledge share systems (MS-Teams and share points). Ability to follow and understand SOPs and review protocols or reports as needed along with good analytical understanding for data interpretation. Performs other duties as assigned. Education level and/or relevant experience: Required: (Graduate in Cell & Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology or related discipline) MS with 5+ years experience with strong industrial exposure. BS with 8+ years experience with strong industrial exposure Preferred: Relevant industry experience in biologics or cell and gene therapy space. Knowledge and skills (general and technical) : …