Scientist, Analytical Development and Protein Science

The Role

In this role, as a Scientist, you will work with the Analytical Development and Protein Science groups. The Scientist will be responsible for developing analytical bioassays for enzymatic activity assays, with an emphasis on HPLC, LC-MS assays and/or plate-based fluorometric/colorimetric assays for enzymes with small-molecule substrates and cell-based assays for enzymes with protein substrates. This individual will work closely with colleagues in Technical Development and the Therapeutic Areas to develop and transfer methods that will ultimately be used in quality-controlled assays to characterize mRNA/LNP drug products.  In addition to designing and executing experiments, the candidate will interpret experimental findings and communicate results within and across teams.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Develop and qualify HPLC-UV and LC-MS-based enzyme activity assays for the detection of small molecules.

• Develop and qualify plate-based fluorometric/colorimetric assays for the detection of small molecules.

• Develop and qualify cell-based assays for enzymes with protein substrates.

• Document experiments clearly and thoroughly in lab notebooks, protocols, and white papers, to enable effective transfer of assays between groups.

• Work closely with therapy area colleagues across Moderna and with Technical Development to transfer methods for use in quality control assays (biochemical and cell-based).

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Chemical Engineering (or a closely related field) or MSc with at least 5 years of industry experience in developing bioassays, HPLC-UV or LC-MS assays.

• Experience in designing, executing and analyzing scientific experiments.

• Experience with HPLC-UV, LC-MS and LC-MS/MS methods development.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Hands on experience with cell based bioassay development.

• Strong interpersonal skills in a dynamic setting.

• Ability to work independently on complex experiments.

• Ability to collaborate closely with multiple cross-functional project teams.

• Ability to multi-task to meet technology development and research goals.

• Strong quantitative analysis skills as well as excellent written and oral communication.

• Knowledge of cGMP, USP and ICH guidelines as they relate to assay development and qualification.

• Adherence to industry best practices for data documentation.

• Candidate will be curious in understanding key scientific questions and tailoring analytical assays to answer them, and bold in trying new analytical approaches. Will work collaboratively with multifunctional teams and will be relentless in solving technical problems of separation and detection.

Moderna is pleased to provide you and your family with a comprehensive and innovative suite of benefits, including:

• Highly competitive and inclusive medical, dental and vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical expenses and dependent care expenses
• Lifestyle Spending Account funds to help you engage in personal enrichment and self-care activities
• Family care benefits, including subsidized back-up care options and on-demand tutoring
• Free premium access to fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes 
• Exclusive preferred pricing on Peloton fitness equipment
• Adoption and family-planning benefits
• Dedicated care coordination support for our LGBTQ community
• Generous paid time off, including:
  •    Vacation, sick time and holidays
  •    Volunteer time to participate within your community
  •    Discretionary year-end shutdown
  •    Paid sabbatical after 5 years; every 3 years thereafter
• Generous Paid Leave offerings, including 18 weeks of 100% paid parental leave for all new parents
• 401k match and Financial Planning tools
• Moderna-paid Life, LTD and STD insurance coverages, as well as voluntary benefit options
• Complimentary concierge service including home services research, travel booking, and entertainment requests
• Free parking or subsidized commuter passes
• Location-specific perks and extras!

About Moderna

Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world. 

By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities.

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.

As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute and make a meaningful impact.

If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities.

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free and drug-free work environment.

Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply!

Moderna is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer.

Moderna 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 or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law. Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.

Belonging, Inclusion, and Diversity are critical to the success of our company and our impact on society. We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees and believe that by cultivating diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we can provide an environment where every employee is able to contribute their best.

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. 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 contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com.  (EEO/AAP Employer) 

-