Principal Scientist, Statistics & Computational Methods

The Role

Moderna is seeking a statistical scientist deeply passionate about empirical research in drug discovery and early development. You will lead and execute computational strategies for drug design, develop novel methodologies, and partner with scientists to advance Moderna’s platform technology.

This position requires a strong foundation in data analysis and applied statistics. You will contribute to critical decision-making across the life cycle of drug discovery and development. This position has significant visibility and potential for growth in a dynamic organization.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Lead computational investigations into the impact of novel formulations on biology. Partner with cross-functional teams to develop principled design of experiment strategies (e.g., adaptive designs, optimal designs), statistical models and computational methods.

• Design and carry out data analysis strategies (normalization, statistical inference) for biophysical measurements and bioassays (e.g., ELISA, amplicon-seq, mass spec).

• Explore and build novel statistical models or machine learning methods to advance our platform technology.

• Collaborate with bioinformatic engineers and develop tools to enable data democratization.

• Independently manage multiple concurrent, fast-paced projects across Moderna’s research ecosystem. Partner with wet-lab and dry-lab scientists.

• Contribute to our culture of best data practices and statistical excellence. Conduct educational seminars on statistics and computational methods.

Here’s What You’ll Need (Minimum Qualifications)

• Ph.D. in Statistics, Biostatistics, or related quantitative discipline

• 5+ years of relevant academia or industry experience (post PhD) is required

• Establish records working with cross-functional teams (e.g., publications, work experiences)

• Strong coding skills with R and Python

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Establish record of analyzing multiple data types and building principled statistical models

• Establish expertise in one of the following:

  • High-dimensional biological data analysis and methods

  • Empirical Bayesian methods

  • Reinforcement learning, active learning

• Experience with Python, version control tools (git, GitHub), high performance computing and AWS cloud computing platform

• Positive team building and team work skills: innate ability to influence, lead and inspire people, within function and beyond functional/company boundaries

• Candidate will be curious in exploring new path for drug discovery, bold in proposing creative experimental designs and statistical methods. Will work collaboratively with multifunctional teams and will be relentless in pursuing successful outcomes.

Moderna is pleased to provide you and your family with a comprehensive and innovative suite of benefits, including:

• Highly competitive and inclusive medical, dental and vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical expenses and dependent care expenses
• Lifestyle Spending Account funds to help you engage in personal enrichment and self-care activities
• Family care benefits, including subsidized back-up care options and on-demand tutoring
• Free premium access to fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes 
• Exclusive preferred pricing on Peloton fitness equipment
• Adoption and family-planning benefits
• Dedicated care coordination support for our LGBTQ+ community
• Generous paid time off, including:
  • Vacation, sick time and holidays
  • Volunteer time to participate within your community
  • Discretionary year-end shutdown
  • Paid sabbatical after 5 years; every 3 years thereafter
• Generous Paid Leave offerings, including 18 weeks of 100% paid parental leave for all new parents
• 401k match and Financial Planning tools
• Moderna-paid Life, LTD and STD insurance coverages, as well as voluntary benefit options
• Complimentary concierge service including home services research, travel booking, and entertainment requests
• Free parking or subsidized commuter passes
• 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.
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.

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

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 proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer.

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 an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.

Belonging, Inclusion, and Diversity are critical to the success of our company and our impact on society. We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees and believe that by cultivating diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we can provide an environment where every employee is able to 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 [email protected]. (EEO/AAP Employer) 

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