At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and execute innovative bioanalytical strategies for mRNA therapeutics.
- Company: Join Moderna, a leader in mRNA science and transformative medicine.
- Benefits: Competitive healthcare, generous paid time off, and wellness resources.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while advancing cutting-edge science.
- Qualifications: PhD or MSc with relevant experience in bioanalytical method development.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
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. 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 (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. 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 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.
(Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Oxford 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.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Oxford
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
Get yourself into the loop by joining local biotech meetups or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections with professionals in the field and can often lead to temporary gigs through word-of-mouth. Plus, you'll get to hear about the latest trends and developments directly from the source.
✨Showcase Your Passion in Science
Consider starting a blog or social media channel to showcase your interest in biotechnology. Share the latest research, your insights, and even your projects. This will not only enhance your visibility in the community but also attract potential employers like Moderna who might be scrolling through for talent.
✨Tap into University Resources
If you’re still in school or recently graduated, don’t forget to use your university’s career services. They often have exclusive connections with companies looking for temporary staff. Reach out to them for internship listings and networking opportunities tailored to the biotech sector.
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
When you spot that perfect temporary role at Moderna, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, you’ll be in the best position to get noticed quickly and can show your enthusiasm for the role while filling out the application.
We think you need these skills to ace (Fixed Term) Scientist, Immunogenicity, Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays in Oxford
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 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.
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. 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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Moderna
✨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 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.
