Vertex Spring 2026 Co-op, Combination Device Enabling Technology

Role Summary

The Vertex Combination Device Enabling Technologies Co-Op program is a 6-month experiential training program for doctoral students in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related fields. It provides hands-on experience in analytical development for combination devices and serves as a launchpad for a career in biopharma CGT.

Responsibilities

• Build and enhance new capabilities for the Center of Excellence for combination device analytical development, focusing on enabling technologies.
• Gain hands-on experience with advanced non-destructive analytical techniques (applied spectroscopy such as Raman and UV-Vis) and in-process testing technologies (Chemical Hyperspectral Imaging, Vacuum Decay, Helium Leak Detection, MicroCurrent High-Voltage Leak Detection).
• Develop proof-of-concept analytical platforms, drive testing-methodology innovation, and help ensure quality and efficiency in the Combination Device CMC organization.
• Contribute to development and implementation of novel analytical methods; help establish SOPs and best practices; present findings.

Qualifications

• Required: Enrolled in a PhD program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field.
• Required: Demonstrated advanced theory and practical knowledge of engineering principles relevant to device design and functionality (e.g., mechanics, electronics, microfluidics, biomaterials, sensor technology).
• Required: Proven experience in independent research, experimental design, data analysis, and technical report writing.
• Required: Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills; strong understanding of analytical chemistry, materials science, or spectroscopy principles; experience with spectroscopy (e.g., FTIR, Raman, UV-Vis) and/or non-destructive testing techniques (CHI, Vacuum Decay, HVLD, functional testing of medical devices).
• Required: Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team; legal authorization to work in the United States (Vertex does not sponsor internships).
• Required: Enrollment in an advanced degree program if graduating before June 2026; availability to work full-time, 40 hours per week January‚ÄìJune 2026.
• Preferred: Familiarity with characterization of autoinjectors or cell therapy products; experience in a dynamic R&D environment, project management, and scientific communication skills.

Skills

• Analytical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Proficiency with spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, Raman, UV-Vis) and non-destructive testing methods (CHI, Vacuum Decay, HVLD).
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Education

• PhD program in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field.

Additional Requirements

• Full-time, on-site availability January‚ÄìJune 2026; 40 hours per week.