Sr. Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations

The Role

Joining Moderna means advancing mRNA science to transform medicine. Work with exceptional global teams on a broad pipeline and build a career that makes a real difference for patients.

Moderna is strengthening its presence in Norwood, Massachusetts, a cornerstone of our manufacturing and operational excellence. Our Norwood campus translates mRNA science into scalable impact, supporting the global delivery of our medicines. We welcome talent ready to drive innovation and make a meaningful difference for patients worldwide.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Perform routine cell-based ELISA assays to evaluate in vitro relative protein expression (IVRPE) across development, characterization, release, and stability samples.
• Culture and maintain mammalian cell lines using aseptic technique, ensuring optimal cell health, confluency, and viability.
• Prepare assay plates, execute transfections, and manage multi-day workflows with precision and consistency.
• Conduct serial dilutions, reagent preparation, sample handling, and plate-based assay execution in alignment with established protocols.
• Maintain accurate, organized, and inspection-ready records within laboratory systems and notebooks.
• Provide day-to-day technical guidance to Research Associates on assay execution, laboratory best practices, and troubleshooting fundamentals.
• Troubleshoot experimental challenges, support investigations, and proactively identify opportunities to enhance assay robustness, efficiency, and scalability.
• Lead or contribute to optimization of assay protocols and workflows to improve data quality, throughput, and readiness for automation.
• Support method transfers and the implementation of automated workflows, leveraging digital tools and opportunities to engage with emerging generative AI technologies to enhance analytical insights.
• Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support evolving Technical Development priorities.

The key Moderna Mindsets You’ll Need to Succeed in the Role

• We behave like owners. The solutions we’re building go beyond any job description.
• We obsess over learning. We don’t have to be the smartest, we have to learn the fastest.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Basic Qualifications)

• MS OR Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related field with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience
• Hands-on laboratory experience in cell culture and/or bioassays
• Basic understanding of ELISA or immunoassays
• Experience with mammalian cell culture techniques
• Familiarity with aseptic technique
• Strong organizational and time management skills

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

• Master's degree with 2–3 years of experience, or BS/BA with 3–5 years of experience in a relevant field
• Hands-on experience with cell-based ELISA, IVRPE, or potency assays
• Strong working knowledge of ELISA, immunoassays, or other plate-based assays
• Experience with mammalian cell culture (adherent and suspension) and aseptic technique
• Experience with plate-based assays, multichannel pipetting, and multi-day assay workflows
• Familiarity with plate reader software, electronic laboratory documentation, and routine data analysis
• Experience with method troubleshooting, assay transfer support, or implementation of improved workflows
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experiments and improve assay performance
• Experience training or mentoring junior staff
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow and improve detailed procedures
• Able to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Adaptability in a fast-paced laboratory setting
• Strong organizational and time management skills

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.

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.

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.

Our Working Model

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.

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.

Accommodations

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.

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.