Director-Head of Molecular Profiling

Job Description

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is seeking a highly motivated and innovative scientist to join our growing immunology research site in Seattle as the Director-Head of Immune Cell Profiling. This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of immunology research by building and leading a cutting-edge Molecular Profiling team. The successful candidate will drive strategy, develop advanced research capabilities, and lead a team of scientists to uncover novel biological insights in order to identify, validate and prioritize therapeutic targets. In addition, they will develop and execute a strategy for reverse translation optimally enabling serial innovation for immunological indications in line with Vertex’s strategic goals

The Molecular Profiling group will leverage state-of-the-art technologies, including spatial transcriptomics, single-cell RNA/ATAC sequencing, CYTOF, and state of the art proteomics. In close collaboration with the biomarker group the molecular profiling group forms the basis for biomarker discovery. In partnership with the Data & Computational Science group they will be integrating AI/ML-driven data analysis to advance our understanding of human biology and disease. The Head of Molecular Profiling will also play a pivotal role in fostering external collaborations with academic and industry partners to accelerate innovation and expand capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and lead Molecular Profiling capabilities at the Seattle research site, ensuring alignment with Vertex’s strategic goals.
• Develop and execute a strategic vision for the Molecular Profiling group, including identifying and prioritizing technology investments in collaboration with partner technology teams.
• Build and lead a high-performing team of scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence.
• Leverage clinical samples to generate novel biological insights and identify high-priority targets and pathways for further investigation in immunology indications.
• Collaborate with the biomarker team to successfully execute on Vertex’s biomarker strategy
• Collaborate with Data and Computational Sciences to implement advanced AI/ML approaches for bridging clinical, experimental, and computational teams to nominate novel immunology targets.
• Direct single-cell Multiomics atlases and ML models for data-driven target prioritization across autoimmune disease cohorts.
• Serve as a key member of the Seattle Research leadership team, contributing to the overall strategy and success of the site.
• Act as a leader on interdisciplinary project teams, driving scientific innovation and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Identify and establish external collaborations with academic institutions, biotech companies, and other organizations to enhance Molecular Profiling capabilities.
• Present findings, strategies, and progress to senior leadership and other stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related disciplines with 10+ years of relevant post-doctoral experience
• Proven expertise in spatial transcriptomics, CYTOF, single-cell sequencing, and proteomics.
• Demonstrated experience in complex data analysis, including the application of AI/ML methods to derive novel biological insights.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of building and managing high-performing teams.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate across functional groups and present to senior leadership.
• Self-motivated, organized, and adept at solving complex problems in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• A passion for innovation and a commitment to transforming the lives of people with serious diseases, their families, and society.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in immunology research and a deep understanding of immune system biology.
• A strong network of collaborators in academia and industry.
• Experience leading cross-functional teams and managing external partnerships.

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.  

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Onsite

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at [email protected]