Research Associate, Analytical Development

ModernaTX • Norwood, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

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. In this role, you will support the development, optimization, and execution of cell-based bioassays to enable release and stability testing of mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines. You will generate high-quality, precise data that underpins clinical and commercial programs, ensuring robustness and reliability across analytical workflows. Operating as an individual contributor in a 100% onsite environment, you will collaborate cross-functionally while expanding your expertise and leveraging digital and Generative AI-enabled tools to enhance assay performance and data insights.

Requirements

• 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 and/or bioassays preferred
• Familiarity with nucleic acids (e.g. RNA, DNA) and delivery systems (e.g. LNP, lipoplex, AAV)
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately
• Basic data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Team-oriented mindset with willingness to learn and grow

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with techniques such as ELISA, cell-based assays, or reporter assays is a plus

Responsibilities

• Execute cell-based bioassays to assess potency and functional activity of mRNA-based therapeutics and vaccines
• Support assay development, optimization, and qualification activities under scientific guidance
• Perform routine cell culture activities, including maintaining and expanding cell lines with precision
• Analyze experimental data rigorously, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and clear documentation of results
• Assist in troubleshooting assay performance issues and investigating deviations to ensure data reliability
• Follow established protocols, SOPs, and regulatory expectations in a highly controlled environment
• Contribute to authoring and maintaining technical documentation, including protocols, reports, and data summaries
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Analytical Development, Quality, Process Development, and Research teams to support project timelines and deliverables

Benefits

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, 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 investment opportunities to help you plan for the future
• Location-specific perks and extras

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees