Scientist, Analytical Technical Operations

Moderna • Norwood, MA

5d • $109,200 - $174,600 • Onsite

About The Position

Moderna’s Analytical Technical Operations (ATO) team is seeking a Scientist to lead operational method development and support the transition of analytical methods from development into robust, scalable, high-throughput laboratory execution. This is a 100% onsite role at Moderna’s Technology Center campus in Norwood, Massachusetts.

The Scientist serves as a scientific interface between Analytical Development and ATO, applying expertise in LC/MS, chromatography, microfluidic methods, automation, and high-throughput methodologies alongside an understanding of sample demand, turnaround time, equipment capacity, data flow, and routine execution. The role drives method optimization, technology transfer, troubleshooting, and lifecycle improvements for characterization, in-process, release, and stability testing across Moderna programs.

Requirements

• PhD in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific discipline; alternatively, a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree with directly applicable industry experience.
• Demonstrated experience in analytical method development, optimization, transfer, validation or pre-validation, troubleshooting, and lifecycle support.
• Hands-on experience with LC/MS and liquid chromatographic techniques, including method performance assessment, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.
• Experience translating scientific method requirements into reliable routine execution while accounting for volume, capacity, scheduling, turnaround time, training, and executional robustness.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design studies, analyze data, solve complex problems, manage multiple priorities, and influence outcomes across cross-functional teams.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with microfluidic, capillary electrophoretic, plate-based, or comparable high-throughput analytical technologies, including LabChip or similar platforms.
• Experience designing, implementing, or improving automated or semi-automated laboratory workflows using liquid handlers, robotic systems, integrated workcells, or automated data processing.
• Experience supporting mRNA, oligonucleotide, gene therapy, biologics, vaccines, lipid nanoparticles, or other advanced therapeutic modalities.
• Knowledge of analytical procedure lifecycle management, data integrity, GMP/GLP expectations, and phase-appropriate method control.
• Experience with LIMS, ELN, chromatography data systems, laboratory scheduling tools, automated data pipelines, or instrument integration.
• Experience partnering with contract laboratories, external development or manufacturing organizations, instrument vendors, or automation providers.
• Strong scientific judgment, technical writing, collaboration, and communication skills, including the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into practical operational solutions.
• Proactive, curious, data-driven approach and commitment to quality, operational excellence, continuous improvement, and Moderna’s mission.

Responsibilities

• Lead operational method development focused on robustness, reproducibility, throughput, automation compatibility, data integrity, and sustainability.
• Translate Analytical Development methods into standardized, scalable workflows for routine, high-volume testing while preserving scientific intent and required performance.
• Design and execute studies for method optimization, performance characterization, comparability, pre-validation, transfer, and operational readiness.
• Provide technical expertise in LC/MS and separation sciences, including HPLC/UHPLC, capillary electrophoresis, microfluidic platforms, method execution, data interpretation, and troubleshooting.
• Advance microfluidic analytical methods, including LabChip or comparable platforms, to improve speed, sample efficiency, consistency, and scalability.
• Develop automation-ready workflows for sample preparation and analytical methods compatible with liquid handlers, robotic platforms, plate-based execution, and integrated data systems.
• Apply high-throughput principles to optimize batching, instrument utilization, analyst touch time, cycle time, and laboratory capacity.
• Serve as a scientific interface with Analytical Development, communicating operational requirements for volume, run time, controls, standards, equipment, data review, automation, and transferability.
• Lead or support analytical technology transfer, including strategy, execution, acceptance criteria, knowledge transfer, training, documentation, and post-transfer monitoring.
• Lead complex technical troubleshooting and investigations involving methods, instrumentation, reagents, samples, data, and workflow interactions, using structured root cause analysis and experimental design.
• Partner with Process Development, Formulation Sciences, Quality Control, Digital, Automation, Laboratory Engineering, and external organizations to ensure end-to-end method and technology readiness.
• Create technical documentation, including protocols, reports, transfer packages, work instructions, risk assessments, and training materials.
• Mentor colleagues and strengthen organizational capability in method science, operational development, technology transfer, automation, and data-driven problem solving.
• Drive continuous improvement and method lifecycle management through performance monitoring, modernization, change implementation, and sustainable corrective and preventive actions.

Benefits

• Competitive healthcare and voluntary benefit programs.
• Fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support.
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support.
• Paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown.
• Savings and investment programs.
• Location-specific perks and extras.
• May be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or an equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

What This Job Offers

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