Company Description Moderna is a pioneering biotechnology company focused on transforming the way medicines are made through its mRNA technology platform. The company develops vaccines and therapeutics across infectious diseases, cancer, rare diseases, and other serious health conditions. With a global team and a values-driven culture, Moderna is committed to delivering the greatest possible impact to people through mRNA medicines. Applicants are encouraged to learn more about the company at modernatx.com and through its official social media channels. Moderna maintains strict standards for recruitment and will never request payment or sensitive banking information during the hiring process, urging candidates to report suspected recruitment fraud to the designated company email or appropriate authorities.
Role Description The Principal Scientist, Antibody Discovery and Engineering is a full-time, on-site role based in Lebanon, NH. This role leads the design, discovery, and optimization of antibodies to support Moderna’s mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines. Day-to-day responsibilities include developing and refining antibody discovery strategies, overseeing experimental design, managing laboratory work and data analysis, and guiding antibody engineering campaigns to improve affinity, specificity, stability, and developability. The Principal Scientist collaborates closely with cross-functional teams in biology, bioinformatics, platform technology, and clinical development to move programs from early research through preclinical evaluation. The role also involves mentoring scientific staff, contributing to project planning and timelines, authoring technical documents and reports, and presenting findings to internal stakeholders and external partners as needed.
Qualifications
- Strong foundation in antibody discovery, protein engineering, and molecular biology techniques (e.g., phage or yeast display, hybridoma, B-cell cloning, expression and purification of antibodies).
- Expertise in assay development and data analysis for antibody characterization (e.g., binding, functional, biophysical assays; use of relevant analytical software and tools).
- Experience leading scientific projects and teams, including experimental design, troubleshooting, mentoring, and cross-functional collaboration.
- Proficiency in interpreting complex datasets, preparing technical reports, and communicating results clearly to both scientific and non-scientific audiences.
- Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related field, with substantial industry or equivalent experience in antibody discovery and engineering.
- Demonstrated track record of scientific contributions (e.g., publications, patents, or project leadership) in biologics or therapeutic antibodies.
- Ability to work on-site in a laboratory environment in Lebanon, NH, adhering to safety and quality standards and supporting a collaborative, inclusive culture.
- Experience in therapeutic development, particularly in oncology, infectious diseases, or immune-mediated conditions, and familiarity with regulatory considerations and developability assessments is beneficial.
