Sr. Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations

About 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Monitor assay performance and respond to routine experimental issues with limited oversight, applying strong troubleshooting skills.
• Operate laboratory instrumentation including plate readers, plate washers, incubators, biosafety cabinets, and associated equipment.
• Acquire, review, and analyze experimental data using established tools, including curve fitting methodologies.
• 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.

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

Pay & Benefits

The salary range for this role is $74,000.00 - $118,400.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs.

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That’s why our benefits and well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between. 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.