(Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell

(Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell

Harwell Full-Time 40500 - 49500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Moderna

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and execute innovative bioanalytical strategies for clinical programmes.
  • Company: Join Moderna, a leader in mRNA science transforming medicine.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment at Harwell with opportunities for scientific innovation.
  • Why this job: Work with cutting-edge technologies and exceptional teams to advance transformative medicines.
  • Qualifications: PhD or MSc with relevant experience in bioanalytical method development.

The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.

The Role

Joining Moderna means advancing m RNA 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 m RNA 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 m RNA‑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.

Alongside developing robust bioanalytical capabilities, you will have opportunities to leverage emerging digital technologies and Generative AI‑enabled tools that continue to transform scientific workflows, data interpretation and decision‑making across Moderna's research organisation.

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 (n Ab) 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 m RNA 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

  • Ph D 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.

Equivalent combinations of education, technical training and relevant laboratory experience will also be considered.

  • 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 m RNA 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 (e LNB) 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."
  • #J-18808-Ljbffr

(Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell employer: Moderna

Moderna in Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of laboratory automation. Employees benefit from comprehensive growth opportunities, mentorship programs, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking mRNA science, all while working in a state-of-the-art facility that prioritises efficiency and excellence in clinical development.

Moderna

Contact Details:

Moderna Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell

Get Involved in Local Research Communities

Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!

Leverage University Alumni Networks

If you're a recent grad, don’t underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network! Reach out to alumni working in biotechnology to gather tips about job openings at companies like Moderna. You'd be surprised how willing people are to help out a fellow grad!

Show Off Your Projects

Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!

Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends

Biotech is a fast-paced field, so keeping yourself updated with the latest advancements is crucial. Attend industry conferences, webinars, or workshops to broaden your knowledge and meet potential employers. Plus, it’ll give you fantastic talking points for your interviews at places like Moderna!

We think you need these skills to ace (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Harwell

Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Organizational Skills
Compassion
Flexibility
Teamwork
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Moderna that you have the hands-on skills they need.

Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Moderna.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Moderna does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.

Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.

How to prepare for a job interview at Moderna

Brush Up on Lab Techniques

Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Moderna. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.

Know Your Bioinformatics Tools

Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.

Show Your Teamwork Skills

Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Moderna's culture.

Research Recent Biotech Innovations

Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Moderna. This shows your passion for the industry!