Co-Op, Protein Design

Moderna • Cambridge, MA

1d • $20 - $60 • Onsite

About The Position

This is a full-time co-op based in Norwood, MA from January 18th - June 25th, 2027. Candidates must be available for the entire duration of the program. The Structural Biology Research Co-Op will support laboratory operations within Moderna’s Tundra laboratory at the Norwood manufacturing site. The position provides hands-on exposure to X-ray crystallography techniques, protein structure modeling, research documentation practices, and laboratory robotics operations supporting programs within Infectious Disease. This role offers meaningful, practical experience in a regulated biopharmaceutical environment, with the opportunity to contribute to ongoing laboratory and operational initiatives.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree program in a STEM field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline).
• Foundational laboratory skills applicable to research.
• 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.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skill.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance.
• Interest in working within a research laboratory environment.
• Background in or a strong desire to learn structural biology (X-ray crystallography and Cryo-EM).
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

Responsibilities

• Partner with experienced structural biology scientists to learn and apply core X-Ray crystallography laboratory techniques.
• Prepare proteins, solutions, and screens required for routine X-ray crystallography experiments.
• Design experiments and operate laboratory robotics to perform screening and optimization experiments.
• Learn to model and refine 3D protein structures with various crystallographic software.
• Opportunity to gain knowledge and work alongside Cryo-EM scientists.
• Support laboratory organization and general housekeeping activities.
• Maintain good research documentation practices and present data to the team.
• Maintain a safe laboratory environment and follow all site safety and compliance requirements.
• Complete all required training assignments in a timely manner.
• Contribute to special projects and continuous improvement initiatives as assigned.

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