Principal Scientist, Analytical Research

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Principal Scientist to lead our Analytical Research team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, with experience in both large and small molecule analytical development. Primary responsibilities include building, leading, and providing technical and strategic oversight to a team of digital-first analytical scientists focusing on method development, characterization, and impurity identification for large molecules, small molecules, and mRNA lipid nanoparticle formulations in Moderna’s Discovery organization. This role manages overall analytical deliverables and timelines to meet discovery program needs. Further responsibilities include working with Technical Development to transfer phase appropriate analytical strategies. This is a laboratory-based technical leadership position.

This role will be located at the Moderna Science Campus in Cambridge, MA. The individual will be a leading contributor to mRNA-LNP drug substance and drug product analysis from early Discovery to candidate nomination into clinical development.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Lead a matrix team of analytical scientists working on method development for identification, structure elucidation, and characterization of LNP-based pharmaceuticals and their components (large and small molecules) using biochemical techniques (gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid/protein purification, PCR) and analytical techniques (LC-UV/CAD, high-resolution LC-MS/MS, and GC-MS/FID)

• Develop and implement method qualification/validation strategies, and overall analytical control strategies for small molecule/lipids across mRNA-LNP modalities in a discovery phase appropriate manner

• Design and implement high-throughput next generation analytics, and create the digital data systems for analytical data flow

• Drive technical discussions, define action items and deliverables, author and review analytical documentation, and provide technical oversight and leadership across the portfolio of programs in Discovery

• Serve as a strategic and technical partner to the Research Organization, Analytical Development, and Analytical Technical Operations, and work with the Discovery, Non-clinical Sciences, and Technical Development teams to ensure meeting analytical deliverables, timelines and alignment with program development activities and milestones

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

• MS with 10 – 15 years, or Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Organic Chemistry, or closely related field with over 7 years of relevant industry experience in analytical chemistry

• Expertise in biochemical techniques on various instrumentation platforms (e.g., gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid/protein purification, cell culture and cloning, enzymatic reactions such as PCR, reverse an T7 transcriptions, NA digestions and ligations)

• Knowledge and extensive hands-on experience in large and small molecule analytics, including method development (mass spectroscopy, separation techniques (UPLC, HPLC, CE), and NMR spectroscopy) for the identification, characterization and structure elucidation of RNA, proteins, lipids, and nanoparticles, with sound knowledge and proven experience in developing and implementing validated high-throughput analytical methods

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

• Strong ability to drive team towards best practices demonstrating leadership qualities in a fast-paced environment and demonstrate managerial abilities and strong technical leadership in both direct reporting relationships and in a matrix and cross-functional environment to execute on strategy

• Experience in data visualization, analysis and statistical evaluation of data (JMP, Spotfire, Dry Labs) and programming in common computing languages (C, Python) 

• Strong interpersonal skills with an eagerness to work with and support colleagues in other departments

• Ability to navigate through ambiguity and rapid growth and adapt to change

• Knowledge of current FDA and ICH guidelines

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 fitnes