Principal Scientist, Bioanalytical & Molecular Assays

The Role: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 role is based at Moderna’s Harwell site and offers the opportunity to shape the future of molecular and genomic biomarker strategies across a diverse clinical portfolio. Working at the intersection of molecular biology, bioanalysis, genomics, informatics, and clinical development, you will play a critical role in advancing programs from discovery through clinical development while helping translate clinical insights into future pipeline opportunities.As a senior individual contributor within the Molecular Assays team, you will provide scientific and technical leadership for the development, validation, and deployment of advanced molecular assays that generate high-quality clinical data to support decision-making across multiple therapeutic programs. You will operate with significant independence, partnering across functions to deliver innovative assay solutions while leveraging emerging digital and data-driven approaches, including opportunities to engage with advanced analytics and Generative AI-enabled tools that accelerate scientific discovery and operational excellence.Here's What You'll Do:Provide hands-on scientific leadership and laboratory support for the design, development, optimization, and delivery of fit-for-purpose molecular assays supporting clinical endpoints.Lead the development and implementation of RT-qPCR, dPCR, and NGS-based assays across a broad range of applications, including gene expression, viral load analysis, mRNA pharmacokinetics, bulk RNA sequencing, targeted RNA sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing, TCR/BCR repertoire profiling, targeted DNA panels, and pathogen or viral sequencing.Own end-to-end assay lifecycle activities, including method development, qualification, validation, and technology transfer to internal laboratories and external CRO partners.Author and review validation plans, reports, protocols, acceptance criteria, and supporting technical documentation in accordance with GCLP requirements and industry best practices.Ensure assays are scientifically robust, reproducible, scalable, and aligned with clinical program objectives and regulatory expectations.Oversee phase-appropriate clinical sample testing activities, ensuring rigorous quality control, quality assurance, data integrity, and operational excellence throughout assay execution.Lead deviation investigations, CAPA activities, and inspection-readiness efforts to support compliance and audit preparedness.Serve as a scientific subject matter expert for molecular assay strategies across multiple clinical development programs spanning Phase 1 through Phase 3.Work independently while providing matrix leadership across multidisciplinary teams of molecular biologists, NGS scientists, and bioinformaticians.Mentor colleagues and contribute to the continued development of scientific capabilities across the organization.Partner closely with Clinical Development, Biomarkers and Translational Medicine, Bioanalytics, Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance, and Data and IT teams to ensure alignment between assay strategies and broader program goals.Integrate basic science research, bioanalytical approaches, genomics, and informatics to support clinical development decisions and generate actionable biological insights.Reverse-engineer clinical findings to identify novel scientific opportunities that can inform and strengthen Moderna’s future pipeline.Effectively communicate scientific strategies, project plans, risks, challenges, and study outcomes to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Influence cross-functional decision-making by translating complex molecular and genomic data into clear, actionable recommendations.Contribute to the adoption of innovative technologies, advanced computational approaches, and AI-enabled solutions that enhance assay development, data interpretation, and translational research capabilities.Thrive within a fast-moving, highly collaborative environment where scientific rigor, innovation, and patient impact remain central to every decision.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.We act with dynamic range, driving strategy and execution at the same time at every step.Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)EducationPh.D. in Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field with 9+ years of biotech/pharma experience (or M.S. with 12+ years of directly relevant experience).Technical ExpertiseDeep, hands‑on experience developing and validating clinical qPCR, dPCR, NGS assays and managing end‑to‑end workflows from method development, validation, sample testing and reporting.Strong knowledge of GCLP/GLP guidelines preferred and requirements for phase‑appropriate validation for clinical trial biomarker/endpoints; familiarity with GxP/MHRA/GCLP/ICH expectations and inspection readiness.Proficiency with library prep (amplicon, hybrid capture, poly(A)/RNA workflows), nucleic acid extraction from diverse matrices, and orthogonal QC (Bioanalyzer/Tapestation, qPCR/dPCR).Demonstrated track record building and validating bioinformatics pipelinesExperience integrating genomics data and instrumentation with LIMS/ELN, data governance, and secure handling of clinical data strongly desired.Pay & BenefitsAt Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our global benefits and well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.Best-in-class healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needsA holistic approach to well-being with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health supportFamily building benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy supportGenerous paid time of