Principal Research Associate, Analytical Development at Moderna

Norwood, Massachusetts, United States

Moderna Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Biotechnology, PharmaceuticalsIndustries

Requirements

  • BS degree with ≥5 years of relevant industry experience, or MS degree with ≥2 years of experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related field (Basic Qualifications)
  • Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and developing/executing cell-based potency assays (Preferred)
  • Expertise with techniques such as flow cytometry, ELISA, luminescence/fluorescence-based reporter assays, HPLC, or mass spectrometry (Preferred)
  • Strong analytical mindset with the ability to critically interpret results and guide assay optimization (Preferred)
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities in a dynamic environment (Preferred)
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal (Preferred)
  • Self-motivated, team-oriented, and capable of working with minimal supervision (Preferred)

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and execute cell-based potency assays that assess the functional activity of Moderna's mRNA-based products
  • Perform assay pre-qualification aligned with regulatory expectations for clinical and commercial programs
  • Analyze and interpret complex data sets
  • Troubleshoot assay performance, investigate deviations, and drive resolution in a timely and collaborative manner
  • Serve as Subject Matter Expert (SME) for cell-based assay methodologies, providing technical support across internal and external project teams
  • Author and review technical documents, including protocols, reports, and method transfer packages
  • Evaluate emerging assay technologies and platforms for potential implementation
  • Additional duties as may be assigned from time to time

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

cell-based potency assaysmammalian cell cultureflow cytometryELISAluminescence assaysfluorescence assaysHPLCmass spectrometry

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the basic qualifications for this role?

A BS degree with ≥5 years of relevant industry experience, or MS degree with ≥2 years of experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related field is required.

What preferred skills or experience are highlighted for this position?

Preferred qualifications include hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and developing/executing cell-based potency assays, expertise with techniques such as flow cytometry, ELISA, luminescence/fluorescence-based reporter assays, HPLC, or mass spectrometry, and strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

What is the work environment like at Moderna for this role?

The role thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, partnering with cross-functional stakeholders, and aligns with Moderna's values of being Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

What benefits does Moderna offer?

Moderna provides best-in-class healthcare coverage, voluntary benefit programs, holistic well-being support including fitness, mindfulness, and mental health, Lifestyle Spending Accounts, family planning and adoption benefits, generous paid time off including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown, plus savings and investment opportunities.

What makes a strong candidate for this Principal Research Associate role?

Strong candidates bring deep scientific rigor, independent problem-solving, strong interpersonal skills, a self-motivated and team-oriented mindset, and the ability to work with minimal supervision in a dynamic environment.

Moderna

Develops mRNA-based medicines for health

About Moderna

Moderna focuses on developing medicines using messenger RNA (mRNA), which is a crucial component in how cells produce proteins necessary for biological functions. Their approach involves creating a new class of medicines that utilize mRNA to instruct cells to produce specific proteins, potentially leading to significant advancements in treating diseases. Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals, which often rely on chemical compounds, Moderna's mRNA-based therapies aim to enhance the discovery, development, and manufacturing processes of medicines. The company's goal is to improve patient outcomes by harnessing the power of mRNA to create effective treatments.

Cambridge, MassachusettsHeadquarters
2010Year Founded
$5,925.5MTotal Funding
IPOCompany Stage
Biotechnology, HealthcareIndustries
5,001-10,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account
Unlimited Paid Time Off
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
Sabbatical Leave
Hybrid Work Options
401(k) Company Match
Parental Leave
Family Planning Benefits
Fertility Treatment Support
Adoption Assistance
Wellness Program
Mental Health Support
Phone/Internet Stipend
Home Office Stipend

Risks

Potential backlash in Australia for bypassing vaccine safety steps.
Possible removal from Nasdaq 100 Index could affect investor confidence.
Hong Kong residents' reluctance to get vaccinated may hinder market penetration.

Differentiation

Moderna is pioneering mRNA technology for new categories of medicines.
The company integrates AI to optimize mRNA design and production processes.
Moderna's mRNA platform enables rapid development of vaccines and therapeutics.

Upsides

Moderna received a $176 million contract for a bird flu vaccine.
The company is expanding mRNA applications to personalized cancer vaccines.
Moderna is establishing a domestic mRNA production facility in Australia.

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