Principal Research Associate, Analytical Development at ModernaTX, Inc. in Norwood, Massachusetts

Job Description:

The Role:



Moderna is seeking highly skilled, talented, and motivated applicants for a Principal Research Associate position based in Norwood, MA site. This role will support Analytical Development with method development/pre-validation, impurity identification and characterization of small molecule/lipid components of mRNA-Lipid Nanoparticles (LNP) based pharmaceuticals. The individual will work with other scientists and interface with Process Chemistry, Preformulation, and Strategy teams. The successful candidate must have a strong background in method development, separation sciences, and mass spectrometry. Experience with the analysis of small molecules such as lipids and polymers are preferred.


This role will be located at the Moderna Technology Center in Norwood, MA.



Here's What You'll Do:

• Contribute as part of the Analytical Development towards the development and execution of various separation and mass spectrometry based analytical methods to support raw materials, lipids, RNA, drug substance and drug product characterization, impurity identification, release, and stability.
  
  


• Perform method development, qualification, validation, and support method transfer and associated documents to internal QC and external CROs/CMOs.
  
  


• Focus on development and execution of separations science for the profiling, characterization, and quantification of small molecules and lipids using UHPLC-CAD/MS and GC-FID/MS
  
  


• Work closely with colleagues within Moderna Process Chemistry, Process Development, Formulation, Analytical Tech Operations, Analytical Sciences and Technology and QC teams to support raw material testing, process optimization, method development, forced degradation studies and hands-on troubleshooting.
  
  


• Demonstrate independent judgment in technique and method selection, study design, generate and contribute to data analysis, technical report writing and presenting findings to multidisciplinary teams.
  
  


• Maintain a safe laboratory work environment and be accountable for good documentation practices.
  
  

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

• BS with at least 5 years or MS with at least 2 years of relevant industry experience in analytical development or in the small-molecule biopharmaceutical space.
  
  


• BS/MS in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, or closely related field.
  
  


• Practical experience with HPLC, CE, GC, and MS method development, validation, and transfer.
  
  


• Experience with sample extraction/separation techniques and chromatography methods (SPE, SPME, RP-IP, HILIC, SEC, etc.).
  
  


• Knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry and biology and standard methods of analysis of these molecules.
  
  


• Knowledge of theories, principles and techniques of relevant scientific areas and basic understanding of industry practices and standards.
  
  


• Excellent communication (oral and written) and attention to detail
  
  


• Ability to follow complex method development and suggest appropriate method modifications
  
  


• Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, keep accurate records, follow instructions, and comply with company policies
  
  


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


• (Preferred) Knowledge of current FDA and ICH guidance's
  
  

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!

About Moderna



Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.


By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities.


We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.


As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute and make a meaningful impact.


If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities.


Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free and drug-free work environment.


Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply!


Moderna is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer.


Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law. Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.


Belonging, Inclusion, and Diversity are critical to the success of our company and our impact on society. We're focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees and believe that by cultivating diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we can provide an environment where every employee is able to contribute their best.


Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com. (EEO/AAP Employer)


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