Specialist, Quality Control
Moderna
Summary
As a Quality Control Specialist, you will support cGMP QC testing of raw materials, drug substance, and finished products at Moderna's manufacturing facility and affiliated contract organizations. Based on-site in Norwood, Massachusetts, this individual contributor role combines hands-on analytical testing and troubleshooting with leadership of method transfers, qualification activities, and quality records.
Job description
Here's What You'll Do
- Execute testing for analytical method validation and qualification, alongside routine testing of release, stability, and in-process samples, using cell-based potency assays, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), and protein analysis.
- Execute QC molecular biology and bioassay methods, including qPCR, sequencing, and protein analysis, and support bioassay testing for raw materials, drug substance, and drug product.
- Lead method transfers and qualification activities in collaboration with Development groups, helping expand QC Bioassay laboratory capabilities and establish methods that support reliable cGMP testing.
- Lead special projects as a Bioassay subject matter expert (SME), bringing technical expertise to laboratory challenges.
- Serve as an interdepartmental liaison to Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, Development, and other relevant groups.
- Teach and train analysts on technical concepts and analytical methods, providing on-the-job training that builds understanding of laboratory procedures and assay execution.
- Write and revise standard operating procedures (SOPs), protocols, and reports, ensuring compliance with cGMP documentation requirements and applicable regulatory guidelines.
- Troubleshoot analytical methods, equipment, laboratory procedures, and assay performance, applying technical understanding to identify issues and support effective resolution.
- Review analytical data and perform assigned data analysis and trending to support understanding of assay performance and laboratory results.
- Own and manage quality records, including investigations, change controls, corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs), and ECs, ensuring that associated activities and documentation meet cGMP requirements.
- Establish and maintain a safe laboratory working environment, provide support during audits, and collaborate on continuous improvement initiatives.
- Explore opportunities to build familiarity with Generative AI tools for technical learning, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement, subject to company approval and appropriate data protection, scientific oversight, and cGMP controls.
- Remain accountable for completing all mandatory training and assigned tasks, and perform additional duties as assigned.
Here's What You'll Need (Basic Qualifications)
- Education: BA/BS Degree
- Experience: STEM degree with minimum 5 years of experience in a cGMP laboratory, with hands-on experience in molecular biology, Cell based Assays and Protein Analysis.
- Specific Certifications or Training: None
Here's What You'll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
- Method development/qualification experience with molecular biology, cell-based assays, or protein analysis methods.
- Trained in Aseptic techniques and general laboratory instrumentation (e.g. pH meters, balances, pipettes)
- Ability to prepare reagents, pipette small volumes, work in a Biological Safety Cabinet
- Experience with laboratory equipment calibration and maintenance.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, cross-functional matrix environment.
- Working knowledge and application of FDA, EU, ICH guidelines, and regulations.
- Experience providing technical training.
- Experience in technical writing.
Requirements
- BA/BS Degree
- STEM degree
- Minimum 5 years of experience in a cGMP laboratory
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology
- Hands-on experience in cell-based assays
- Hands-on experience in protein analysis
- Must hold work authorization in US without need for future sponsorship
Benefits
- Competitive healthcare
- Voluntary benefit programs
- Fitness support
- Mindfulness support
- Mental health support
- Fertility support
- Adoption support
- Surrogacy support
- Paid time off
- Volunteer days
- Sabbatical
- Global recharge days
- Year-end shutdown
- Savings and investments
- Location-specific perks
Company overview
Moderna, Inc. is a pioneering American biotechnology and pharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that has revolutionized the field of medicine through its groundbreaking messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Founded in 2010, the company has established itself as a global leader in RNA therapeutics, primarily focusing on mRNA vaccines and treatments. Moderna's innovative platform uses mRNA to provide cellular instructions for producing proteins that trigger immune responses, creating a new category of medicines with significant potential to improve patient outcomes across various therapeutic areas. The company gained worldwide recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for developing one of the earliest and most effective mRNA vaccines, which demonstrated the transformative potential of its technology platform. Beyond infectious diseases, Moderna is advancing a diverse pipeline of 44 treatment and vaccine candidates across infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune conditions. With approximately 5,800 employees and a strong commitment to scientific innovation, Moderna continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities and research initiatives to deliver the greatest possible impact through mRNA medicines.