Senior Research Associate - 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 hands-on experience with cell therapies is preferred. This individual will collaborate and coordinate across cross-functional teams within Analytical and Process Development, 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- ELISA, Alphalisa, MSD, PCR, Flow Cytometry both manually and using automation tools like liquid handlers. Assist analytical development teams with setting up, monitoring, and successfully completing daily automated runs and integrated systems.  Report on project progress and reports or present data effectively at internal group or project team meetings as needed. Coordinate shipment handling, including receiving, logging, and distributing samples and reagents from internal and external sources. Track inventory for samples and reagents as needed for several projects. Participate in data management activity to ensure timely completion of deliverables.   Support Monday to Friday with occasional weekend days, 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 and great attention to detail skills.  Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities 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. Assist with lab organization and compliance with lab safety protocols.  This position is primarily lab-based.  Perform other duties as assigned Education level and/or relevant experience(s) Required: (Graduate in Cell & Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology or related discipline) BS with 2+ years experience or MS with 0-2 years experience. Preferred: Relevant industry experience in biologics or cell and gene therapy space. Knowledge and skills…