Scientist, Clinical Biomarker Laboratory, Flow Cytometry

The Role:

Moderna is seeking a motivated and skilled Scientist to join the Clinical Flow Cytometry group. This individual will serve as the Cytometer Instrument Lead while also executing clinical testing, assay/panel development, and validation activities under GCLP guidelines. The Scientist will work with a team of scientists to deliver high-quality biomarker data to support clinical programs across multiple therapeutic areas.

The successful candidate will have strong technical expertise in spectral flow cytometry instrumentation (Cytek Aurora), along with experience in developing, validating, and executing flow cytometry–based assays. This role requires deep understanding of immunology, experience in clinical laboratory environments, and the ability to apply best practices in translational and clinical sample testing. You will be an integral part in applying high parameter flow and complex assays to generate key clinical data to drive clinical trial decisions.

Here's What You’ll Do: 

• Serve as an internal technical expert (Instrument Lead) for flow cytometry instrumentation, operation, and maintenance.

• Ensure all cytometers are harmonized to generate equivalent data, remain ready for clinical acquisition, adhere to stringent QC program and that all documentation meets GCLP Compliance needs and is available in the event of internal or external audit.

• Identify and troubleshoot instrumentation, assay, or workflow issues; implement mitigation strategies to avoid downtime or data loss.

• Responsible for Data Management and database backups adhering to GCLP Compliance and Regulatory needs

• Work with and guide Global Instrument Leads on maintenance, harmonization, and documentation practices.

• Train and mentor junior staff in flow cytometry methods, instrumentation, and assay execution.

• Execute clinical sample testing under GCLP guidelines, including PBMC and whole blood processing, staining, and high-parameter immunophenotyping.

• Adhere to established experimental workflows and documentation procedures while working to improve processes and documents for accuracy and efficiency.

• Design, develop, and optimize multiparameter flow cytometry panels and assays, including ex vivo functional profiling (e.g., intracellular cytokine staining, proliferation, cell activation).

• Lead or support assay fit-for-purpose qualification and validation to ensure compliance with clinical standards.

• Perform data acquisition, gating analysis (FCS Express), interpretation, and reporting of study data.

• Contribute to analytical study documentation including SOPs, study plans, and study reports as needed.

• Stay current with emerging technologies, reagents, and industry best practices in clinical cytometry.

• Occasionally the job may require overtime work or weekend shift as needed

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• Ph.D., MS or BS in Immunology, Life Sciences, Biology, or related field; 5yr+ experience in translational/clinical biomarker flow cytometry

• Strong expertise with flow cytometry instrumentation (Cytek Aurora, BD Symphony/Fortessa, or equivalent) including set-up, troubleshooting, and routine maintenance.

• Proven experience in clinical laboratory environments with adherence to GCLP or other regulated standards.

• Demonstrated success in designing, developing, and validating multiparameter flow cytometry assays for clinical applications.

• Hands-on experience in immunology-based functional assays (intracellular cytokine staining, T cell immunophenotyping, receptor occupancy assays).

• High proficiency with flow cytometry analysis software (FCS Express, FlowJo, OMIQ) and data interpretation.

• Strong organizational, computational, and documentation skills (Excel, GraphPad Prism, PowerPoint, Word).

• Excellent written, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to collaborate effectively across teams and with external partners.

• Track record of flexibility, problem-solving, and adaptability to shifting priorities in a fast-paced environment.

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus a suite of voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Lifestyle Spending Accounts to personalize your well-being journey
• Family planning and adoption benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities
• 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. 

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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