Principal Scientist, Process Development (Expression Systems)
Core
Lead host strain, vector, and expression system strategy for E. coli-based production of recombinant enzymes, plasmids, and related biological materials supporting Moderna's technology platforms.
Role type
Principal Scientist, Process Development (Expression Systems)
Builds
Scalable and robust upstream processes for recombinant enzymes and plasmids
Domain
Biotechnology / Microbial Production / Synthetic Biology
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
E. coli strain engineering, vector design, expression-system development, microbial production screening, microbial genetics, molecular biology, DOE, data-driven construct selection, small-scale screening workflows, high-throughput screening systems, strain and vector engineering, troubleshooting expression issues
Preferred skills
E. coli expression systems for recombinant enzymes/plasmids, promoter/RBS libraries, plasmid copy-number optimization, induction-system tuning, codon/design strategies, secretion/localization approaches, protein solubility optimization, fermentation process development, downstream interfaces, analytical methods for expression assessment
Technologies
ambr, deep-well plate, shake flask, bioreactor
Responsibilities
Own strategy for E. coli host strain, vector, and expression-system; Design and execute screening cascades for production candidates; Define decision criteria for host/vector selection and expression tuning; Develop and optimize small-scale and high-throughput screening workflows; Evaluate host strains, promoters, RBS, copy number, plasmid architecture, and induction systems; Use DOE to improve screening throughput and predictiveness; Lead or support strain and vector engineering; Apply molecular biology and synthetic biology principles to troubleshoot expression issues; Define fit-for-purpose characterization and handoff packages; Partner with cross-functional teams on actionable screening outputs; Develop platform approaches and standardized documentation; Support CMC documentation and regulatory responses; Serve as technical leader and mentor
Seniority
Principal, strategy & mentorship
