The Role:
We are seeking a talented and experienced Director to lead our in vivo pharmacology research team. The successful candidate will play an integral role across our oncology research groups, overseeing the development of relevant in vivo animal and cell models, and the design and execution of pharmacology studies to propel our pre-clinical research and early development oncology pipeline in addition to Translational initiatives, such as in vivo combination evaluations. The Director will manage all internal and/ or external in vivo workflows, collaborating with various teams within Moderna, including Cancer Vaccine Research, Immuno-Oncology Research, and Research Operations. The ideal candidate will be a proven and effective team leader and people manager, highly collaborative team player, possess excellent communication skills, have a proven track record of independent research achievements, and bring innovative approaches to further our mission.
Here’s What You’ll do:
Direct the execution and analysis of in vivo pharmacology studies that support oncology programs and platform initiatives
Develop and refine in vivo murine tumor models and study protocols, ensuring compliance with regulatory, ethical, and quality standards; including serving as Principal Investigator on internal in vivo pharmacology protocols
Identify new tumor models and new techniques that will further advance mRNA therapies
Work closely with internal teams to optimize in vivo study designs and oversee their execution, whether conducted in-house or through external partners
Establish and maintain partnerships with Contract Research Organizations (CROs), industry partners and academic institutions for all in vivo studies
Manage the analysis, review, and summary of in vivo pharmacology data to ensure robustness as well as integration into big picture considerations
Contribute to and co-author scientific reports for inclusion in regulatory submissions, internal and external presentations
Lead and allocate team resources and timelines to ensure the efficient progression of studies and achievement of objectives across multiple programs and oncology-focused teams
Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table:
Advanced degree in Pharmacology, Oncology, or a related scientific field, with a PhD or DVM and at least 9+ years relevant experience
Demonstrated expertise in in vivo pharmacology within oncology drug discovery and early development, preferably with a focus on nucleic acid therapeutics and vaccines
Deep knowledge of immuno-oncology including current and emerging standards of care to inform forward translational studies
Experienced in the creation and use of diverse in vivo cancer models for efficacy and PK/PD studies, including advanced local, systemic, disseminated, and orthotopic syngeneic, xenograft and genetically engineered murine models
Knowledge in overseeing relevant cell model development to be deployed in vivo
Highly experienced in in vivo study management, including pharmacological agent administration via IV, IP, SC, iTu, IM, and PO dosing routes including vaccination protocols; regular health and tumor growth monitoring; bioluminescence/fluorescence imaging using IVIS systems; necropsy and tissue collections
Experienced in authoring, implementing and ensuring compliance to study protocols under IACUC guidelines
Ability to mentor and develop junior scientists and research associates, and guide teams to successfully conduct in vivo studies, trouble shoot, and grow technically and scientifically
Skilled in outsourcing studies and fostering productive relationships with CROs and/or academic collaborators
Additional Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with cell line engineering, humanized models, or surgical/ resection models
Familiarity with regulatory guidelines and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards
Experience with bioinformatics tools relevant to pharmacology and oncology research
Facility with data analysis software tools such as GraphPad Prism
Exceptional organizational abilities, attention to detail, scientific adaptability, and a results-driven approach
Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the capacity to effectively engage with multiple teams
A respectful, inclusive, and collaborative mindset, complemented by boldness, creativity, curiosity, and relentlessness
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.
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 make a request to the Talent Acquisition Partner or contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com. (EEO/AAP Employer)
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