Overview
Principal Research Associate, Therapeutics Translational Research – we are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Principal Research Associate to join our Therapeutics Translational Research team. In this role you will support the advancement of our mRNA therapeutics platform through translational studies with programs in clinical development. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge pipeline through hands-on in vitro and ex vivo experimentation, with a focus on deep immune profiling and target validation. The successful candidate will bring substantial experience in flow cytometry, cellular immunology, molecular immunology, and tumor / T cell interactions, with the ability to independently execute, troubleshoot, and refine immune-based assays. This role requires scientific curiosity, flexibility, and a strong collaborative spirit.
Responsibilities
- Develop, optimize, and execute primary immune cell-based assays using human samples to evaluate responses to mRNA-based therapeutics.
- Design and implement high-parameter flow cytometry panels for in-depth immune profiling; analyze and interpret complex cytometry data.
- Isolate and culture T cell subsets from blood using standard and novel techniques.
- Develop 3D tissue culture systems to interrogate the interactions between tumor cells, T cells and novel therapeutics
- Perform experiments to isolate and profile antigen specific T cells via scRNAseq, TCR-Seq
- Execute and adapt protocols with minimal guidance; troubleshoot and incorporate new techniques by reviewing current literature.
- Collaborate across functional teams to plan studies, interpret results, and share findings through presentations and written reports.
- Maintain rigorous documentation and contribute to regulatory filings, standard operating procedures and project deliverables.
- Additional duties as may be assigned from time to time.
Basic Qualifications
BS with 5+ years of relevant experience or MS with 2+ years in immunology, immuno-oncology, cancer biology, or related fields.Strong preference for industry experience, supporting immunology-focused drug discovery and translational research.Proven expertise in ex vivo functional assays, including flow cytometry, ELISpot, ELISA, cytotoxicity and reporter-based systems.Ability to perform complex tissue culture models including tumor spheroids / organoidsHands-on experience with immune cell isolation and culture of human T cells.Independent proficiency in high-parameter flow cytometry (including intracellular cytokine staining); experience with Cytek platforms preferred. Proficient with cloud-based data analysis tools such as OMIQ.Strong critical thinking and communication skills with the ability to proactively identify and address experimental challenges.Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while maintaining attention to detail and scientific rigor.At Moderna, we are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.Benefits and Workplace
Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus a suite of voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needsA holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health supportLifestyle Spending Accounts to personalize your well-being journeyFamily planning and adoption benefitsGenerous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdownSavings and investment opportunitiesLocation-specific perks and extrasAbout 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. 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. 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.
Our Working Model
As we build our company, we value in-person collaboration and embrace a 70 / 30 in-office work model to foster innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship.
Equal Opportunities and Accommodations
Moderna is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants. Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We are committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. For accommodations during the hiring process, contact leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com.
Export Control Notice
This position may involve access to technology or data subject to U.S. export control laws. Employment is contingent upon the applicant's ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Only U.S. persons are eligible for this position due to EAR restrictions.
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