Stem Cell Principal Research Scientist, T1D Discovery Biology

General Summary

The Principal Scientist, Stem Cell Research provides scientific leadership and ownership of stem cell differentiation, characterization, and assay strategies supporting Vertex stem cell therapy programs. Hands‑on, lab‑based role defining experimental direction, setting scientific standards, and driving decision‑making for complex stem cell‑derived cellular platforms.

• Provide scientific leadership and ownership of stem cell‑derived cellular models, differentiation platforms, and assay systems as a direct line manager and/or matrix manager of a small team.
• Define experimental strategy, technical roadmaps, and decision criteria for complex differentiation and characterization challenges.
• Distill multidimensional datasets into clear conclusions and actionable recommendations for program‑level decisions.
• Lead development of robust, quantitative experimental platforms integrating stem cell biology, assay development, imaging, and computational analysis.
• Drive advanced troubleshooting and methods development for challenges in stem cell differentiation and functional assessment.
• Serve as a scientific point of accountability in cross‑functional discussions; provide clear, data‑driven guidance.
• Lead scientific outputs including invention disclosures, patent filings, publications, and internal technical documentation.
• Provide scientific mentorship and technical direction to junior scientists and research associates.
• Laboratory‑based with regular on‑site presence; occasional weekend work required.

• Deep expertise in pluripotent stem cell culture and directed differentiation.
• Proficiency with functional, molecular, and imaging‑based assays for differentiation and characterization.
• Ability to integrate experimental biology with quantitative data analysis.
• Strongly preferred:
  Python (or similar) for data analysis/visualization, workflow automation, or handling large datasets.
• Plus: high‑throughput/automated cell culture and cell‑based assays.
• Preferred:
  Benchling and ELN/LIMS systems.
• Excellent scientific communication.

• Ph.D. with 4–7 years relevant post‑doctoral experience, or Master’s with 7+ years, or Bachelor’s with 10+ years (molecular/cell biology, developmental biology, stem cell biology, or related).
• Proven experience advancing stem cell‑derived systems toward translational, preclinical, or product‑enabling objectives.
• Ability to independently define scientific strategy, assess trade‑offs, and provide data‑driven recommendations.
• Experience mentoring/technical leadership/project coordination across multidisciplinary teams.

Pay Range (as stated): $147,200 - $220,800