Principal Research Associate, Clinical Biomarker Laboratory, Flow Cytometry

The Role:

Moderna is seeking a talented and motivated Principal Research Associate to join the Clinical Flow Cytometry group to serve as a technical expert for the generation of high parameter flow cytometry data under GCLP guidelines to support clinical programs across multiple therapeutic areas.  The Principal Research Associate will work with a team of scientists to return high quality data for clinical trials conducted by Moderna.  This will include development of cell-based flow cytometry assays, performing fit-for-purpose validations, and executing clinical sample testing.  You will be an integral part in applying high parameter flow and complex assays to generate key clinical data to drive clinical trial decisions.

Here's What You’ll Do: 

• Execute clinical sample testing under GCLP guidelines

  • Conduct ex vivo stimulation for functional profiling of immune responses using intracellular cytokine staining on clinical trial PBMC samples

  • High parameter immunophenotyping on PBMCs and whole blood samples

  • PBMC isolation and cryopreservation from blood products

  • Strict adherence to protocols related to technical details and documentation to ensure assay rigor and repeatability

  • Document procedures using LabVantage LIMS

• Deliver high quality data within defined timelines and aligned to current industry expectations  

• Play a prominent role in a team developing high parameter spectral flow cytometry assays and applying them to clinical trial samples to generate key data.  Potential to become a co-lead to support clinical study data generation.

• Adhere to established experimental workflows and documentation procedures while working to improve processes for accuracy and efficiency

• Run experiments independently from sample prep to acquisition, and accurately analyze (FCSExpress) and present data

• Assist in report writing: SOPs, analytical study plans, analytical study reports

• Work with study leads in assay development, validation studies, and to prepare for clinical sample analysis on Cytek Aurora cytometers

• Identify inconsistencies and gaps and work to establish mitigation strategies to avoid downtime/data loss

• Work with the team to identify, test feasibility, and implement emerging laboratory techniques

• Maintain and support safe lab practices and environment

• Educate, guide, and train junior personnel where appropriate

• Occasionally the job may require overtime work or weekend shift as needed

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• BA, MS or relevant experience in Immunology, Life Sciences, Biology, or related field; >5yr lab experience

• Minimum of 3 years of flow cytometry experience and clinical sample testing

• Direct flow cytometry experience from sample processing and staining, through sample acquisition

• Spectral flow cytometry understanding and hands on experience is desired

• In depth experience on cytometers such as Cytek Aurora, BD Fortessa/Symphony, and similar is preferred

• Experience with cell culture, ex vivo assays, and cell isolation from tissues

• Experience in assessing cell-mediated immunity through flow cytometry: ex vivo stimulation of PBMC and intracellular cytokine staining for functional profiling is highly preferred

• Knowledge of system software for data analysis: FCS Express, OMIQ, FlowJo

• Possess good computational skills, experienced with Word, Excel, Power Point, and GraphPad Prism

• Up to date on best practices in flow cytometry and application to clinical trials

• Demonstrated level of independence 

• An effective communicator and collaborator in a project team with good written and presentation skills 

• Flexibility with changing priorities and urgent project requests 

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
  •