Scientist, Analytical Development

The Role: Joining Moderna means advancing mRNA science to transform medicine. Work with exceptional global teams on a broad pipeline and build a career that makes a real difference for patients. Moderna is strengthening its presence in Norwood, Massachusetts, a cornerstone of our manufacturing and operational excellence. Our Norwood campus translates mRNA science into scalable impact, supporting the global delivery of our medicines. We welcome talent ready to drive innovation and make a meaningful difference for patients worldwide. In this role, you will sit at the intersection of cell biology and analytical development, designing mechanism-driven potency assays that translate mRNA product biology into robust, fit-for-purpose analytical methods. You will play a key role in defining and assessing critical quality attributes (CQAs), integrating multi-modal datasets to ensure product quality, consistency, and clinical relevance across development and commercialization. Working as an individual contributor in a 100% onsite environment in Norwood, you will leverage advanced analytical technologies and digital tools—including exposure to Generative AI—to drive assay innovation and deepen mechanistic understanding. Here’s What You’ll Do: Design, develop, and execute cell-based potency assays that assess the functional activity of Moderna's mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines Develop and apply mass spectrometry-based approaches (e.g., proteomics, targeted protein quantitation) to support cell-based assay readouts and product characterization Integrate cell biology and mass spectrometry workflows to interrogate protein expression, modification, and mechanism of action Perform assay pre-qualification aligned with regulatory expectations for clinical and commercial programs Analyze and interpret complex datasets, including proteomics and multi-modal assay data, to inform assay performance and product understanding Participate in the creation of project goals and experimental strategies Troubleshoot assay performance across both MS-based and cell-based components, driving root cause identification and resolution Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for cell-based and/or MS-enabled 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 technologies in mass spectrometry, proteomics, and cell-based assay platforms for potential implementation The key Moderna Mindsets you’ll need to succeed in the role: “We obsess over learning. We don’t have to be the smartest we have to learn the fastest.” “We digitize everywhere possible using the power of code to maximize our impact on patients.” Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications) BS degree with ≥ 8 years, MS degree with ≥5 years, or PhD degree with ≥0 years of relevant industry experience in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Biological Engineering, or a related field Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and cell-based potency assays Strong experience in mass spectrometry, including proteomics (e.g., LC-MS/MS), sample preparation, and data analysis workflows Experience integrating mass spectrometry with cell-based systems to assess protein expression, post-translational modifications, or pathway activation Experience with nucleic acids (e.g., RNA, DNA) and delivery systems (e.g., LNP, lipoplex, AAV) Familiarity with complementary techniques such as flow cytometry, ELISA, qPCR, and/or reporter assays Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex, multi-dimensional datasets and guide assay optimization Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects with shifting priorities in a dynamic environment Excellent organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal Self-motivated, team-oriented, and capable of working with minimal supervision This posit ... (truncated, view full listing at source)