Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations

ModernaTX • Norwood, MA

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Analytical Technical Operations (ATO) team seeks a motivated contingent worker with hands-on experience in analytical chemistry to support CMC Development programs. This laboratory-based role will focus heavily on the execution of analytical testing to support process development, characterization, and data generation across Moderna’s pipeline. This is an onsite role based in Moderna’s Technology Center campus in Norwood, MA. This position will require you to be responsible for operating and troubleshooting analytical instrumentation including LC systems, plate readers, qPCR instruments, and liquid handlers. Experience with laboratory automation and high-throughput workflows is a plus. This position requires strong attention to detail, sound scientific judgment, and the ability to deliver reliable data with rapid turnaround times. You will be part of a fast-paced environment that values technical rigor, collaboration, and curiosity. The ideal candidate will have experience with chromatographic, molecular biology, and biophysical characterization techniques and will contribute directly to the generation of high-quality analytical data.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
• Minimum 0–2 years of experience in analytical chemistry, process development, technical operations, or related laboratory environment.
• Foundational understanding of chromatography and analytical characterization techniques.
• Knowledge of good laboratory practices and documentation standards.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with chromatography techniques including IEX and RP separations with UV, MS, or CAD detection.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as ELISA and qPCR.
• Familiarity with biophysical characterization techniques such as DLS.
• Exposure to integrated laboratory automation platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, Echo).
• Experience with laboratory software systems including Chromeleon (or similar LC software), QuantStudio, LIMS, ELN, and Microsoft Office.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Motivated, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced setting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare samples, execute analytical testing, and perform routine data analysis with rapid turnaround times.
• Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including, but not limited to: UPLC/HPLC, LC/MS, LC/CAD, qPCR, DLS, plate readers, and liquid handlers.
• Perform peer data review and support interpretation of results.
• Assist with method troubleshooting and routine laboratory equipment troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with process development colleagues to communicate analytical results and observations.
• Support high-throughput testing workflows and routine laboratory operations.
• Contribute to method optimization efforts under the guidance of senior team members.
• Execute improvement initiatives to enhance lab efficiency and analytical performance.
• Maintain accurate and compliant documentation of experiments.
• Adhere to all safety protocols and standard operating procedures in the laboratory.

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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level