The Role
Moderna is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist to reside in Moderna’s CMC-Development organization in Norwood, MA. Reporting into the head of the Advanced Characterization group, this lab-based role will support analytical method innovation and technology development that underpins our characterization and control of lipid nanoparticle products. The candidate will be involved with identifying and applying new physical and biophysical methods as well as demonstrating the translatability of these methods to formal product and process control. This role will also contribute to our focus on extending fundamental understanding of pharmaceutical quality attributes of lipid nanoparticles, lipid membranes, and RNA-lipid complexes. The successful candidate should be collaborative in his/her approach, have strong communication skills, and be flexible in a fast-paced and highly dynamic environment. Hands-on experience and expertise with several structural characterization techniques such as SAXS, NMR, DSC, ITC, SPR, light scattering, cryo-EM is required. We seek applicants who are proactive, enthusiastic, and have a passion for science.
Here’s What You’ll Do
Develop novel biophysical methodologies, drive technology innovation, identify and evaluate opportunities for analytical advancement and improvement
Design and execute experiments to advance analytical methodology for lipid nanoparticles characterization
Structurally characterize lipid membranes, lipid-RNA complexes and lipid nanoparticles surface and colloidal properties to further our understanding of fundamental interactions driving LNP functionality
Represent the Advanced Characterization team in cross-functional groups and translate project goals into actionable plans
Collaborate cross-functionally in the application of biophysical methodologies
Prioritize work and provide technical leadership across multiple pipeline programs
Serve as a subject matter expert for structural characterization methods applied to product understanding and process control
Document and present findings internally or externally.
Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)
Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with 0-2 years of relevant experience; or M.S. with 8+ years; or B.S./B.A. with 10+ years of relevant industry experience developing and applying structural characterization methods. Hands-on experience and expertise with several structural characterization techniques such as SAXS, NMR, DSC, ITC, SPR, light scattering, cryo-EM is mandatory.
Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
Demonstrated hands-on experience developing and optimizing structural characterization assays using biophysical techniques such as SAXS, NMR, DSC, ITC, SPR, light scattering, and cryo-EM.
Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical challenges related to biophysical characterization.
Familiarity with analytical method development and pharmaceutical control strategies.
Deep scientific knowledge and practical experience with spectroscopic, physical, and thermodynamic techniques applicable to mRNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) characterization.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
Strong organizational, prioritization, and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and experimental priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
Strong scientific curiosity and demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across Analytical Development, Process Development, Research, and other technical functions.
Self-motivated, organized, and detail-oriented, with a commitment to scientific rigor, data integrity, laboratory safety, and high-quality documentation.
Desire to make a…