Senior Research Associate, Bioanalytical & Molecular Assays - Ligand Binding Assays

Moderna Therapeutics; United States; Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Hybrid in-office model

Job summary

Moderna is seeking an experienced Bioanalytical Scientist to develop, validate, and execute ligand-binding and cell-based assays supporting pharmacodynamic and immunogenicity endpoints for mRNA-derived proteins. You will test clinical samples under GcLP/GMP standards, generate robust data, and ensure regulatory compliance.

In a fast-paced, high-performing laboratory, you will document work using electronic notebooks, contribute to SOPs, and collaborate with Clinical Operations to define

Qualifications

• BA/BS in biological science with 5+ years industry Biotech/pharmaceutical/CRO experience or MS with 3+ years.
• Experience with Ligand Binding and/or Cell Based Assays is required.
• Experience in regulated environments (GLP, GcLP, GMP) is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support development, optimization, and validation of ligand-binding and cell-based assays to evaluate pharmacodynamic and immunogenicity endpoints.
• Perform clinical sample testing across biological matrices in compliance with GcLP requirements using Thermo Watson LIMS.
• Deliver assay development and validation activities on schedule to support key program milestones.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation using electronic lab notebooks.
• Review data and reports to ensure regulatory and Moderna quality expectations.

Skills

Ligand Binding Assays

Cell Based Assays

GcLP/GMP compliance

Regulatory documentation

Education

BA/BS in Biological Sciences

MS in Biological Sciences

Tools

Watson LIMS

LabVantage eLBN

Job description

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. This is an opportunity to join Moderna's Bioanalytical and Molecular Assays - Ligand Binding Assays team as an individual contributor, helping to advance the development of innovative mRNA medicines. Working in a fast-paced, high-performing laboratory environment, you will develop, validate, and execute bioanalytical assays that generate critical pharmacodynamic and immunogenicity data supporting clinical programs. You'll combine strong scientific expertise with operational excellence, partnering across functions to ensure robust assay performance, regulatory compliance, and timely delivery of high-quality data. As Moderna continues to embrace digital innovation, you'll also have opportunities to work alongside advanced laboratory technologies and evolving AI-enabled tools that enhance scientific workflows and decision-making.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Support the development, optimization, and validation of ligand-binding and cell-based assays to evaluate pharmacodynamic and immunogenicity endpoints for novel mRNA-derived proteins.
• Perform clinical sample testing across a range of biological matrices in compliance with Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GcLP) requirements using Thermo Watson LIMS.
• Deliver assay development and validation activities on schedule to support key program milestones.
• Maintain accurate experimental documentation using electronic laboratory notebooks.
• Support the generation, characterization, establishment, and control of critical reagents.
• Contribute to laboratory operations to ensure an efficient and compliant working environment.
• Prepare Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), technical reports, and scientific data presentations.
• Review raw experimental data, analytical study reports, and assay validation reports to ensure laboratory activities comply with current regulatory requirements, industry standards, and Moderna quality expectations.
• Confirm that generated data meet both scientific and regulatory expectations.
• Support the procurement, qualification, and implementation of analytical equipment.
• Partner closely with Clinical Operations and Sample Management to define the end-to-end clinical sample journey.
• Develop fit-for-purpose laboratory manuals that support successful clinical sample management and testing.
• Contribute to a collaborative, high-performance team focused on developing de novo bioanalytical assays for novel mRNA-derived proteins.

Requirements:

• A BA/BS in biological science field and a minimum of 5 years of industry Biotech/pharmaceutical/CRO experience. MS with 3+ years of experience
• Experience with Ligand Binding and/or Cell Based Assays is required
• Candidates with experience doing PK, ADA, or nAb assays are preferred
• Candidates with experience working in a regulated environment (GLP, GcLP, GMP) are preferred.
• Keen attention to detail, ability to multi-task, effective communication skills and a strong desire to collaborate with the team are required
• Ability to effectively communicate program objectives, data analysis and present findings to group team members and key stakeholders.
• Knowledge of GcLP requirements and understanding of current industry trends and regulatory expectations associated with analytical science.
• Experience on Watson LIMS and LabVnatage eLBN would be an advantage.
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

The key Moderna Mindsets you’ll need to succeed in the role:

We obsess over learning. We don't have to be the smartest we have to learn the fastest.

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
• 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

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. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment.

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 .