Research Associate, Analytical Development

The Role

Moderna is seeking a Research Associate for a position based at the Norwood, MA site. This individual will contribute to the development, refinement, and implementation of cell-based bioassays supporting release and stability testing for mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, collaborative, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment. The role requires close partnership with multidisciplinary teams (Quality, Process Development, and Research) to generate scientifically rigorous data for both clinical and commercial programs.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Execute cell-based bioassays to evaluate potency and biological activity of mRNA-based medicines
• Support assay development, optimization, troubleshooting, and qualification activities under guidance
• Perform routine cell culture and maintain cell lines
• Analyze and document experimental data with accuracy and attention to detail
• Afford sources of assay variability and support efforts to enhance assay robustness
• Follow established protocols, SOPs, and regulatory expectations
• Contribute to authoring technical documents such as protocols and reports
• Collaborate with team members and cross-functional partners to support project timelines

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table

• BS degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Biological Engineering, or related field with 0–3+ years of relevant experience
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, transient transfections, bioassays, or related biological techniques
• Demonstrated scientific curiosity and ability to learn new experimental techniques, troubleshoot challenges, and adapt in a fast-paced research environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately
• Basic data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Experience maintaining laboratory notebooks and documenting experimental work in a clear and organized manner
• Strong communicator with a team-oriented mindset
• Familiarity with GraphPad Prism, data visualization, and basic statistical concepts is a plus
• Familiarity with techniques such as ELISA, cell-based assays, or reporter assays is a plus
• Exposure to nucleic acid therapeutics and delivery technologies (e.g., RNA, DNA, LNP, viral vectors) is a plus

Pay & Benefits

• Competitive healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investments to help you plan for the future
• 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.

Our Working Model

We believe 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.

Equal Opportunities

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.

Export Control Notice

This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant’s ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license.