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Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Onsite
The Role
Moderna is seeking a highly motivated computational scientist to join a collaborative, multi-disciplinary, and fast-paced team supporting computational biology across platform research, therapeutic areas, INT, and development. This role is responsible for mRNA sequence design, analysis, visualization, and interpretation of complex biological datasets, with a strong emphasis on enabling sequence engineering workflows and improving the tools that support them.
The successful candidate will contribute directly to mRNA sequence design sequences and projects while also advancing the computational methods, analyses, and internal tools used by the team. This role sits at the intersection of sequence design, data analysis, and scientific computing, and will partner closely with cross-functional groups to support both day-to-day platform needs and broader sequence engineering efforts.
Here’s What You’ll Do
Conduct mRNA sequence optimization to support platform mRNA sequence orders
Install IDR (Identity & Ratio) sequences for high-priority programs and candidates advancing toward Lead Nomination
Support the day-to-day sequence engineering codebase and collaborate on integration of mRNA sequence engineering algorithms into platform applications
Generate hypotheses and execute analyses to improve sequence engineering optimization algorithms, including retrospective analyses and model performance assessments
Provide modeling and programming support for scientific workstreams related to mRNA design, including collaboration on manufacturability-focused efforts
Explore, evaluate, and implement new computational approaches that improve mRNA synthesis success and manufacturability outcomes
Improve existing repositories through runtime optimization, code refactoring, and maintenance of technical debt across sequence engineering and complexity rules codebases
Develop internal tools for interacting with APIs and systems related to mRNA sequence workflows
Communicate results and recommendations clearly to cross-functional collaborators
Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)
BS/BA 8+ years of experience
Experience in algorithm development, computational biology, bioinformatics, or mRNA-related scientific computing.
Demonstrated knowledge of genetics and molecular biology, particularly relating to mRNA.
Experience working with biological datasets and computational analyses.
Proficiency in at least one programming or scripting language, such as Python and/or R.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
M.S. with 4-5 years of relevant experience, or Ph.D. with 0-2 years of experience in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related field; Ph.D. candidates should demonstrate experience applying computational methods to real-world or production-relevant biological problems.
Experience with mRNA sequence optimization and related algorithm development
Ability to generate and test hypotheses using complex biological datasets
Experience supporting or improving scientific codebases, including refactoring, runtime improvement, and maintenance
Ability to understand previously implemented algorithms and improve or extend them thoughtfully
Experience building internal tools or workflows to support scientific or operational teams
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to draw clear conclusions from complex datasets
Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical collaborators
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Meticulous attention to detail and a strong sense of ownership
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.
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.
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 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.
Equal Opportunities
Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity 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. Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply!
Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.
Accommodations
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 accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation 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 team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com.
Export Control Notice
This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant’s ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license.
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