Executive Director, Data Science, Statistics and AI for Research

The Role:

Reporting to the Head of Business Integration and Innovation, the Executive Director (ED) of Data Science, Statistics, and AI for Research will oversee teams responsible for driving data science, statistics, and artificial intelligence activities within Research and Early Development (RED). RED includes both Platform Science departments and all Therapeutic Area departments (e.g., Autoimmune, Infectious Diseases, Immuno-Oncology, and Rare Diseases).

The ED will collaborate closely with the RED leadership team to support Moderna’s platform and programs by managing two teams:

1. Data Science & AI (DSAI)

2. RED Statistics and Computational Methods

These exceptionally collaborative teams build machine learning and AI tools for other computational scientists as well as non-experts to solve critical scientific problems in RED. They analyze data that drive decision making in the platform and that support IND filings. This role requires a candidate with a proven track record of leadership, management, cross-functional collaboration, high emotional intelligence (EQ), and exceptional technical expertise.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Lead, manage, and develop teams that support portfolio needs in data science, statistics, and AI for RED.

• Manage your teams to develop scalable tools and models that feed data to train modern AI systems autonomously.

• Align both internal and external resources to meet portfolio priorities.

• Provide scientific leadership and influence on the design of experiments and foundational models

• Mentor, recruit, and coach junior computational colleagues through skip-level management relationships.

• Drive innovation at Moderna by promoting fundamental research and forming high-quality external collaborations with academic and industrial partners.

• Advocate for AI/ML and computational drug discovery by articulating ROI through data-driven evidence and decision-making.

• Oversee the development of cutting-edge computational approaches and tools for emerging scientific areas.

• Serve as a scientific thought leader, influencing the external environment through publications in peer-reviewed journals and participation in key conferences.

• Contribute to the broader scientific and platform community at Moderna.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• Ph.D. in Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field.

• Minimum of 15 years of work experience, with at least 5 years in Biotech or Pharma.

• At least 5 years of experience leading and managing teams, including managing managers.

• Proven experience in mentoring and effectively communicating complex technical concepts to non-experts.

• Strong background in software development and/or data science-related tools.

• Familiarity with biological terms and concepts.

• Demonstrated commitment to scientific rigor, excellence, and innovation, as evidenced by external recognition (e.g., awards or high-impact publications).

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage across all levels of the organization, including senior leadership.

• High emotional intelligence (EQ) and proven leadership skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, cross-functional matrix environment.

• Experience managing partnerships with academic, industrial, governmental, and non-governmental organizations.

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

• A continuous learner who questions convention and strives to push beyond established limits.

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.

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

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