Sr. Research Associate, NGS platform

Moderna • Cambridge, MA

5d • $74,000 - $118,400 • Onsite

About The Position

In this role, you will be a key contributor within the Genome Sciences team, supporting efforts across Moderna’s mRNA platform to advance therapeutic programs and impact patients. You will own and execute end-to-end next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows, from nucleic acid extraction through library preparation, sequencing, and data QC. Your work will generate high-quality, decision-driving datasets that directly inform platform research and therapeutic program advancement. This team operates in a hybrid model – a centralized genomics platform with the flexibility to embed within project teams as needed – supporting work that ranges from single-sample, high-complexity studies to high-throughput production workflows. We operate with a shared ownership mindset: collective responsibility for platform success, paired with individual ownership of execution, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate brings strong molecular biology expertise, hands-on NGS experience, and a collaborative, shared-ownership mindset, with the ability to independently troubleshoot, adapt, and scale assays in a fast-paced environment. Experience with downstream molecular and/or cell-based assays is a plus. The candidate must thrive in a fast pace environment with high expectations. Integrity, ability to share experimental issues and troubleshoot, curiosity, collaborative spirit, respect for people, exemplary work ethic and setting the bar high are key values to thrive in our Team.

Requirements

• BS/BA in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience in an NGS-focused lab (academic, core facility, or industry)
• Hands-on experience with sequencing library preparation and strong foundation in molecular biology techniques
• Experience operating standard NGS instrumentation, such as: Nanodrop, Qubit, Fragment analysis instruments
• Liquid handlers (e.g., Echo, Mantis, or Hamilton)
• qPCR and/or ddPCR systems
• Illumina and/or Nanopore sequencing platforms
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot workflows with minimal oversight
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple workflows in parallel
• Ability to take ownership of work while contributing to a highly collaborative team environment
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional science
• Proven passion for high-quality, reproducible data
• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time.
• This position is not eligible for remote work
• At Moderna, we are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship

Nice To Haves

• BS/BA in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience in an NGS-focused lab (academic, core facility, or industry)
• Experience working across varying scales of experimentation (low-throughput to high-throughput)
• Experience with complex workflows [e.g., low-input samples, automation, single-cell genomics]
• Experience interpreting sequencing QC metrics and data quality outputs
• Experience supporting drug development or platform-based research programs
• Experience contributing to assay development, optimization, or technology evaluation
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that values Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative thinking

Responsibilities

• Own nucleic acid extraction workflows from diverse samples, leveraging automated liquid handling systems
• Ensure sample quality through accurate quantification, qualification, and normalization
• Prepare RNA and DNA sequencing libraries using kit-based and custom workflows
• Perform library QC, pooling, and sequencing setup for Illumina and Nanopore platforms
• Operate and maintain sequencing instruments to ensure consistent performance and uptime
• Troubleshoot workflow issues, identify and communicate root causes, and implement improvements
• Adapt workflows to project needs across low-throughput and high-throughput scales
• Contribute to development, optimization, and scaling of NGS workflows and lab processes
• Deliver high-quality, reproducible data that rightly balances fast turnaround time and experimental rigor
• Analyze and interpret QC metrics and experimental data; communicate results to stakeholders
• Collaborate with computational and experimental teams to ensure data quality and usability
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation in LIMS and ELN systems
• Contribute to team success through shared ownership, collaboration, and gap-filling where needed
• Support buildout and continuous improvement of NGS infrastructure and workflows

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: Associate degree