Principal Scientist, Computational Protein Design

Role: Principal Scientist in computational protein design within Moderna’s Therapeutics Research, focusing on designing and optimizing T cell receptors (TCRs) and antibodies for therapeutic purposes. Responsibilities: lead computational binder design campaigns, improve affinity, specificity, stability, and developability of TCRs and antibodies; build an integrated platform connecting generative design, docking, screening, and active learning; develop off-target screening strategies; collaborate with structural biology, immunology, and program teams to translate computational models into experimental validation, advancing platform innovation across Moderna’s pipeline. Requirements: PhD in computational biology, protein engineering, or related field; 5+ years post-grad experience in computational protein design with a proven track record in de novo binder generation, using AI/ML-guided methods and structure-informed approaches; strong publication record; proficiency with tools like AlphaFold, Rosetta, ProteinMPNN, and related models; experience connecting computational strategies to experimental workflows; leadership or mentorship experience. Preferred qualifications: extensive experience with TCR design, understanding of HLA restriction, cross-reactivity, safety constraints; familiarity with machine learning workflows, protein validation methods, and extending design beyond binders (e.g., enzymes, scaffolds). High-value specifics include therapeutic modalities like biologics, TCRs, and antibodies, with emphasis on discovery and optimization stages. The role involves cross-functional collaboration, with location flexibility and some travel expected.