Co-Op, In Vitro Biology

Moderna • Cambridge, MA

13d • $20 - $60 • Onsite

About The Position

Moderna is seeking a highly motivated co-op with a strong interest in cell biology, assay development, and drug delivery to join our team. This is a full-time co-op based in Cambridge, MA from January 18, 2027 – June 25, 2027. Candidates must be available for the entire duration of the program. The co-op will support the development and application of in vitro assays within Moderna’s research and technology development efforts. The role provides hands-on experience in cell culture, cell-based assay development and optimization, plate-based screening, microscopy, data analysis, and the characterization of novel delivery technologies. This role offers meaningful, practical experience in a collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment, with the opportunity to take ownership of a defined scientific project and contribute to ongoing research and technology development initiatives.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a BS, MS, or equivalent degree in cell biology, molecular biology, bioengineering, biomedical engineering, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Hands-on laboratory experience with mammalian cell culture and a strong foundation in cell and molecular biology.
• Experience with cell-based assays and plate-based experimental workflows.
• Ability to organize and document experimental work clearly and maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Strong communication skills and enthusiasm for presenting and discussing scientific results.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary, fast-paced research environment.
• Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent academic achievement.
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy or imaging techniques.
• Familiarity with quantitative data analysis and visualization using tools such as Excel, GraphPad Prism, or similar software.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experiments, think critically about experimental results, and learn new laboratory techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute plate-based cell assays and microscopy workflows to evaluate novel delivery technologies.
• Optimize cell-based assays for robustness, reproducibility, and scalability by systematically evaluating key cell culture and assay parameters.
• Establish experimental controls, quality criteria, and standardized workflows to ensure consistent assay execution and interpretation.
• Design and conduct follow-up studies to characterize promising candidates in relevant cellular models.
• Apply molecular and cell biology approaches to investigate biological factors influencing delivery performance.
• Execute and troubleshoot experimental protocols, adapt new methods, and leverage scientific literature to guide experimental design.
• Analyze, interpret, document, and communicate experimental results to multidisciplinary project teams.
• Collaborate with scientists across multiple disciplines to advance research objectives.

Benefits

• Free premium access to meditation and mindfulness classes
• Subsidized commuter benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, holidays, volunteer days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Location-specific perks and extras

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree