Research Associate, Immunopeptidomics & Mass Spectometry

The Role

Moderna is seeking a talented and motivated Senior Research Associate of Immunopeptidomics and Mass Spectrometry to join our Cancer Vaccine Research (CVR) team to support research efforts across discovery and pre-clinical initiatives. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience operating, maintaining, troubleshooting, and generating data in the field of mass spectrometry-based proteomics. This position requires understanding of instrumentation as well as sample processing and data analysis workflows. The candidate should also possess a passion for innovation and a commitment to advancing transformative medicines in the fight against cancer.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Perform sample preparation, nano-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (nLC-MS) data acquisition, as well as data analysis and data interpretation to aid in the discovery and validation of tumor-associated antigens and neoantigens

• Take part in regular upkeep of instruments and perform system suitability evaluations

• Maintain detailed, timely, organized records, including lab notebook entries to ensure accurate documentation of experiments, observations, and results

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of literature in the field proteomics, immunopeptidomics, and cancer vaccines

• Contribute to the writing of IND reports

• Present findings at internal meetings

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

• Bachelor’s degree in Immunology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field plus 2 years experience

• Experience with proteomic sample processing workflows including protein digestion, pull-down assays (affinity-tag or immunoprecipitation), and peptide desalting and fractionation

• Experience operating nano-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (nLC-MS) systems

• Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and software used for mass spectrometry data analysis

• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment with aggressive timelines

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a collaborative mindset and the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative

• A passion for innovation and the mission of developing transformative medicines in the fight against cancer

• This role is based in our new LEED-certified HQ in Cambridge, MA and is expected to be in office 70% of the time with flexibility to work from home up to 30%.

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

• Experience with immunopeptidomics workflows

• Hands-on experience with quantitative mass spectrometry assays

• Familiarity with Bruker timsTOF instruments and PASEF® data acquisition methods

• Proficiency with the following software programs: R, Python™, FragPipe, Spectronaut®, and Skyline

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!