Automation Principal Engineer, Lab Automation

Job Description General Summary: Cell & Gene Genetics Therapies, Analytical Development, Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Boston) Vertex has established a new site in the Boston area where research, development, and clinical manufacturing for cell and genetic therapies is based. Cell and genetic therapies represent two rapidly emerging therapeutic modalities with the potential to treat several of the diseases Vertex is focused on, including sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes, and myotonic dystrophy. Further investment in a research and development sites specifically designed to advance these programs will be key to Vertex's continued and sustained leadership in these exciting therapeutic areas. At Vertex Cell and Genetic Therapies (VCGT) our research and development teams will bring together the best biology, technologies, and enhanced manufacturing capabilities to ensure we bring these cutting-edge transformative therapies to patients as quickly as possible. The Principal Automation Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, optimizing, implementing and maintaining laboratories robotic liquid handlers to support CMC analytical assay automation team for Vertex's early, late and commercial cell and gene therapies programs. The candidate will assist scientists in developing analytical automated assay workflows, troubleshooting electrical and mechanical errors, supports operating system validation and or verification, regular maintenance, IT related troubleshooting and escalation and writing operating procedures. In this position candidate will work closely with our Data, Technology, and Engineering (DTE) group to support the Lab of Our Future (LoOF) initiative to increase connectivity across hardware and software of automation platforms for seamless data acquisition and analysis. Our goal is to further optimize the design, maintain, develop new assays workflow and improve existing automated systems for stem cell culture, LC-MS, CE, immune-based and molecular based (PCR, NGS and other) assays, and sample normalization and dilution. In addition, expert knowledge of liquid handling instrumentation, including programming, of Hamilton STAR, Hamilton Vantage, TECAN, BRAVO, or similar is a must. Familiarity with peripheral instrumentation (e.g. plate washer, centrifuge, robotic arm, incubator, Celigo, MSD, Octet, MiSeq or similar) and high content imaging devices (e.g. IXM, Phenix, or similar) is also required. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Design the automation platform for samples preparation for analytical assay (PCR, NGS, ELSA, or similar) and cell culture for primary cells (iPSC, HSC or similar). Assist analytical development teams with setting up, monitoring, and successfully completing daily automated runs and integrated systems. Continuously monitor the health of automation systems and evaluate their efficiency and effectiveness. Lead automation projects including custom integrations as well as routine system upgrades alongside other scientists and collaborate effectively with other VCGT automation teams to facilitate the success of projects. Create and test complex scheduler methods on robotic platforms Hamilton, Tecan, HighRes, BioSero, Thermo CRS, Agilent, and/or Beckman Coulter. Create, test, and QC new methods on liquid handlers and other benchtop equipment as well as provide troubleshooting of errors and escalation as required. Write SOP for assay automation operation procedure and project plan. Offer training opportunities to enable users to effectively utilize each respective automation platform. Effectively communicate ideas and issues to various stakeholders as they arise. Manage operational activities of Analytical Development Department including ELN implementation, Lab of Our Future (LoOF) Initiatives, sample submission, new lab space design, and managing minimal 2-3 contingent workers in support of these activities. REQUIREMENTS: Degree in the biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field with BS 10 years or , MS 7 years or Ph.D with 4-7 years of industry or academic experience in programing and maintaining lab automation. Strong understanding of mechanical and software processes related to integrated equipment and ability to lead and implement continuous improvements on existing projects. Experience in software programming including but not limited to C, C#, Python etc. Extensive experience in high throughput sample preparation, screening, and cell culture in biologics and CGT drug development settings. Strong managerial skills with the ability to mentor and provide guidance to several junior members on a regular basis. Self-motivation, independence, organization, and effective communication skills; adept in solving/troubleshooting highly complex problems as well as the ability to navigate a fast-paced work environment. Ability to work on multiple projects in parallel and transition from one project to another seamlessly while keeping stakeholders' timelines in mind. Experience fostering successful vendor relationships through effective communication. #LI-onsite #LI-SV Flex Designation: On-Site Designated 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. 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

Created: 2024-11-02