2025 Co-op, Discovery Chemistry at ModernaTX, Inc. in Cambridge, Massachusetts

Job Description:

The Role



This position will run from 1/21/25- 6/20/25, all candidates must be available for the entire duration of the co-op program.


Moderna is seeking a talented and motivated co-op with a background in computational chemistry, to perform hybrid quantum mechanics molecular mechanics (QM/MM) simulations. In this project, we seek to gain a mechanistic understanding of the chemistry of nucleic acids from the perspective of physical organic chemistry, using QM/MM computer simulations. The successful candidate will join the Discovery Chemistry team for the first half of 2025 and work closely with our collaborators in Computational Science. As a co-op within the Discovery Chemistry team, the candidate will be responsible for building atomistic models of nucleic acids in various environments, performing QM/MM simulations, analyzing simulation data and synthesizing the results into written and verbal reports. We are looking for someone who is detail-oriented, deeply curious, exhibits an excellent work ethic, and is eager to expand their existing computational chemistry skillset with cutting-edge methods, while applying them to important scientific questions.



Here's What You'll Do

• Build atomistic models of nucleic acids in various chemical environments
  
  


• Perform QM/MM simulations on relevant atomistic model systems
  
  


• Analyze simulation data to build a physical organic model of the relevant chemical mechanisms
  
  


• Keep abreast of, and where appropriate, apply recent advances in QM/MM methods. Critically evaluate results and adapt existing methods or propose new methods accordingly.
  
  


• Collaborate with chemists, computational chemists and data scientists inside Research & Early Development within Moderna.
  
  


• Additional duties may be assigned from time to time to address changing business needs.
  
  

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

• Current Ph.D. student.
  
  


• Prior experience in building atomistic models of nucleic acids and/or nucleic acid complexes
  
  


• Prior experience performing QM/MM simulations, especially on nucleic acids and other biopolymers.
  
  


• Prior classroom experience with physical organic chemistry, chemical mechanisms and chemical thermodynamics/kinetics.
  
  


• Prior experience working in a Lunix environment.
  
  


• Excellent communication skills (verbal, written).
  
  


• Fluency in scripting and automation with Bash and Python.
  
  

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

• Basic software skills (documentation, testing, and code organization)
  
  


• Prior experience with version control systems (Git)
  
  


• Prior experience with AWS
  
  


• Familiarity with the scientific Python stack (Jupyter, Pandas, scikit, PyTorch) and applying it to molecular simulation data.
  
  


• Documented track record of scientific productivity, especially peer-reviewed scientific publications.
  
  


• Prior experience with the ORCA quantum chemistry software package.
  
  


• Demonstrated scientific interest in solving scientific problems in healthcare and drug design.
  
  


• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.
  
  
  

Moderna is pleased to provide you with an innovative suite of benefits, including:

• Free premium access to meditation and mindfulness classes


• Free parking or subsidized commuter passes


• Generous paid time off, including:
  • Vacation, sick time and holidays
  • Volunteer time to participate within your community
  • Discretionary year-end shutdown


• 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 the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com. (EEO/AAP Employer)


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