Vertex Fall Co-op 2026, Protein Sciences

Role Summary

The Vertex Protein Sciences Co-Op program is a six-month experiential training opportunity for students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, biological engineering, biochemical engineering, or related fields. It provides hands-on experience in Protein Sciences and serves as a launchpad for your career at Vertex.

Responsibilities

• Develop new tools that allow characterization of hits for a new therapeutic approach at Vertex.
• Express and purify proteins from recombinant sources and characterize them to ensure protein quality is suitable for assay development and/or CryoEM structural studies.
• Propose and test new and emerging technologies to unravel the molecular mechanism of target engagement and functional inhibition using biochemical, cell-based, and biophysical approaches (could include radiolabeled binding assays, kinetic assays, cell-based enzymatic assays, mass spectrometry, and/or fluorescent assays).

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree, and currently enrolled in a graduate degree program. Major in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or chemical/biological/biochemical engineering. CryoEM experience is desirable but not required.
• Required: Basic knowledge of integral membrane protein purification techniques and biochemical/biophysical analysis methods.
• Required: Attention to detail, ability to accurately establish and follow protocols.
• Required: Strong communication and organization skills.
• Preferred: An open mindset and willingness to learn new techniques as needed to support the Protein Sciences group.
• Required: Capacity to work full-time onsite in San Diego, CA.
• Required: Legal authorization to work in the United States, now and in the future. Vertex does not sponsor internships or entry-level roles in this part of the organization.
• Required: You must be enrolled in an advanced degree program if graduating before December 2026.
• Required: You must be available to work full-time, 40 hours per week from July – December 2026.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree; currently enrolled in a graduate degree program. Related fields include biology, biochemistry, chemistry, chemical engineering, biological engineering, biochemical engineering.