Scientist, Analytical Development

ModernaTX • Norwood, MA

12h • Onsite

About The Position

Moderna is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist to join the CMC-Development organization in Norwood, MA. This lab-based role will focus on analytical method innovation and technology development for the characterization and control of lipid nanoparticle products. The candidate will identify and apply new physical and biophysical methods, demonstrating their translatability to formal product and process control. This role will also contribute to extending the fundamental understanding of pharmaceutical quality attributes of lipid nanoparticles, lipid membranes, and RNA-lipid complexes. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, possess strong communication skills, and be adaptable to a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Hands-on experience with structural characterization techniques such as SAXS, NMR, DSC, ITC, SPR, light scattering, and cryo-EM is required. We are looking for proactive, enthusiastic individuals with a passion for science.

Requirements

• 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.

Nice To Haves

• 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 meaningful impact within a high-growth, transformational organization that values being Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Competitive healthcare
• Voluntary benefit programs
• Holistic approach to well-being
• Access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investments to help you plan for the future
• Location-specific perks and extras

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree