Senior Research Associate, Genome Sciences

ModernaTX • Cambridge, MA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

As part of our vision, Moderna is committed to investing in R&D to further expand our impact on patients. In this role, you will work in the Genome Sciences team to develop and execute cell-based and molecular assays that support programs across Genome Sciences and Moderna’s mRNA platform to develop cellular engineering technologies. You will help generate high-quality, decision-driving data through the design, development, and execution of in vitro experimental systems, with an emphasis on rigorous execution, goal-focused troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate brings strong immune cell culture experience combined with demonstratable expertise and experience in immediate downstream molecular- and cell-based assays.

Requirements

• BS/BA in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, virology, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field with 2+years of experience
• Strong mammalian cell culture experience, particularly with primary immune cell types such as T cells and PBMCs, with proven ability to generate reproducible, high-quality data.
• Demonstrated expertise in qPCR or ddPCR assay design, development, optimization, and data interpretation.
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and cross-functional communication skills.
• Enthusiasm and a passion to deliver the greatest possible impact to people through mRNA medicines.
• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time.
• This position is not eligible for remote work.
• Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• MS with 3+ years of relevant experience in biotech, pharma, or an academically rigorous research environment.
• Experience with LNP and lipoplex transfection, electroporation, or other nucleic acid delivery workflows.
• Familiarity with PCR- and NGS-adjacent molecular characterization workflows.
• Familiarity with cellular engineering systems and tools for cell line generation and genomic medicines.
• Experience with flow cytometry and cell sorting.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and communicate experiments in a fast-paced research environment.
• A desire to make an impact

Responsibilities

• Culture, maintain, and experimentally manipulate mammalian cell lines and primary human cells to support assay development and screening activities.
• Execute cell-based experiments to evaluate nucleic acid delivery, expression, durability, and related molecular and cellular outcomes.
• Execute flow cytometry-based assays to assess cell phenotype, viability, transfection or expression readouts, and other relevant cellular outcomes.
• Design, optimize, and execute qPCR assays for DNA and RNA quantification, including primer/probe design, assay qualification, controls, and standard curves.
• Collaboratively develop and implement ddPCR workflows to quantify vector copy number and other DNA-based readouts relevant to genomic sciences studies.
• Partner closely across teams to generate high-quality samples and support PCR and potentially other molecular or sequencing workflows.
• Analyze, interpret, and present high-quality experimental data in accordance with project timelines.
• Maintain accurate, detailed ELNs and records and help establish robust workflows, controls, and best practices.
• Execute and troubleshoot standard protocols, independently adapt new methods into practice, and incorporate additional assays as program needs evolve.
• Additional duties as may be assigned from time to time.

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: Senior
• Education Level: High school or GED