At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and execute innovative bioanalytical strategies for cutting-edge mRNA therapeutics.
- Company: Join Moderna, a leader in mRNA science transforming medicine globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, wellness resources, generous time off, and family support benefits.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while advancing your scientific career.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc with relevant experience in bioanalytical method development.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
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 Harwell, a globally recognised centre for scientific research and innovation. Our Harwell team is expanding the bioanalytical capabilities that support our growing mRNA pipeline, bringing together exceptional scientists to advance transformative medicines for patients around the world.
As a Scientist within the Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays team, you will play a pivotal role in advancing Moderna's clinical development programmes by designing and delivering innovative immunogenicity and bioanalytical strategies. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams across research, bioanalysis and clinical development, you will help generate the high-quality data that accelerates novel mRNA-derived therapeutics from discovery into the clinic while contributing to future pipeline innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to combine scientific expertise with cutting-edge technologies in a highly collaborative environment.
Here's What You'll Do
- Design and execute phase-appropriate bioanalytical strategies supporting regulated clinical programmes.
- Lead the development of immunogenicity assays, including anti-drug antibody (ADA) and neutralising antibody (nAb) assays, alongside pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) assays for therapeutic protein quantitation.
- Ensure bioanalytical assays are developed, qualified and validated in line with programme timelines and applicable regulatory expectations.
- Develop and optimise assays using ELISA, MSD, cell culture, immunoblotting and other relevant bioanalytical technologies.
- Help establish and expand Moderna's internal bioanalytical capabilities to support the growing mRNA portfolio.
- Procure, qualify and maintain analytical laboratory equipment while preparing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Determine, qualify and control critical assay reagents to support robust and reproducible assay performance.
- Partner closely with Preclinical, Clinical Operations and Sample Management teams to define sample journeys and develop laboratory manuals supporting regulated studies.
- Troubleshoot scientific and technical issues that arise during assay development and regulated bioanalytical activities.
- Communicate scientific concepts, experimental findings, programme objectives and data analyses effectively within a highly matrixed global environment.
- Contribute to the integration of basic science research, bioanalysis and informatics to advance programmes into clinical development while helping translate clinical findings into future opportunities across Moderna's pipeline.
Here's What You'll Bring to the Table
- PhD with at least three years of relevant experience, or an MSc with five or more years of hands-on experience in bioanalytical method development, validation and sample analysis.
- Strong knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) requirements together with an understanding of current regulatory expectations and industry trends within bioanalytical science.
- Expert knowledge of bioanalytical assay platforms including electrochemiluminescence (ECL), immunoassays, cell culture-based assays and related clinical assay methodologies.
- Hands-on experience with cell culture assays is advantageous.
- Experience working with RNA therapeutics, biologics and/or cell therapies is preferred.
- Working knowledge of translational science and the evolving competitive landscape within the mRNA field.
- Curiosity, adaptability and a willingness to learn new scientific concepts while challenging conventional thinking.
- Excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects within a fast-paced research environment.
- Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and electronic laboratory notebook (eLNB) platforms is preferred.
- Knowledge of FDA, MHRA and global regulatory data standards.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain scientific concepts, programme objectives and data analyses across multidisciplinary teams.
This is a site-based position requiring full-time presence at Moderna's Harwell site and is not eligible for remote working. As part of Moderna's commitment to workplace safety, this role may require an enhanced pre-employment check.
The key Moderna Mindsets you'll need to succeed in the role:
- “We act with urgency; Action today compounds the lives saved tomorrow.”
- “We prioritise the platform over any single solution.”
Pay & Benefits
At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That’s why our benefits and well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.
- Competitive healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs.
- A holistic approach to well-being with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support.
- Family building benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support.
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, bank holidays, 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.
The benefits offered may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Moderna and the country where you work.
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.
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 committed to equal opportunity in employment 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.
We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.
Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodation or adjustments to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation or adjustment 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 and Adjustments team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com.
(Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell employer: Moderna Therapeutics
Moderna Therapeutics is an exceptional employer located in Oxford, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong emphasis on employee well-being and career development, the company provides a comprehensive benefits package and ample opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing the future of medicine.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
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We think you need these skills to ace (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to Moderna Therapeutics as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at Moderna Therapeutics.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at Moderna Therapeutics. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at Moderna Therapeutics.
How to prepare for a job interview at Moderna Therapeutics
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at Moderna Therapeutics aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.