Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations
Norwood, MN - USA
Job Summary
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.
As a Research Associate within Analytical Technical Operations you will execute high-throughput bioassay testing to support Technical Development programs across Modernas mRNA pipeline.
You will operate in a fast-paced laboratory environment where precision reproducibility and disciplined execution are critical to delivering high-quality analytical data.
This individual contributor role offers the opportunity to deepen expertise in cell-based and ELISA assays while contributing to process improvements and next-generation data-driven laboratory operations.
Heres What Youll Do:
Perform routine cell-based ELISA assays to evaluate in vitro relative protein expression (IVRPE) across characterization development release and stability samples.
Culture and maintain mammalian cell lines using aseptic technique ensuring optimal cell health confluency and viability.
Prepare assay plates perform transfections and execute multi-day workflows supporting development characterization release and stability testing.
Conduct serial dilutions reagent preparation sample handling and plate-based assay execution with strong attention to detail and reproducibility.
Monitor cell health confluency and viability escalating atypical observations promptly to ensure assay integrity.
Operate laboratory equipment including plate readers plate washers incubators and biosafety cabinets.
Acquire review and document assay data using established analysis tools and curve fitting methods.
Maintain accurate organized and inspection-ready experimental records in laboratory systems and notebooks.
Collaborate with Analytical Development automation teams and cross-functional partners to support troubleshooting and method transfers.
Contribute to process improvements and lab efficiency initiatives while maintaining a strong focus on consistent high-quality routine execution.
Leverage digital tools and evolving analytical technologies including opportunities to engage with generative AI to enhance data quality and workflow efficiency.
Operate as a full-time onsite individual contributor at Modernas Technology Center campus in Norwood MA.
The key Moderna Mindsets youll need to succeed in the role:
We act with urgency; Action today compounds the lives saved tomorrow.
We behave like owners. The solutions were building go beyond any job description.
Heres What Youll Bring to the Table (Basic Qualifications)
Bachelors degree in Biology Biochemistry Cell Biology or related field
02 years of laboratory experience in cell culture or bioassays
Heres What Youll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
Previous industry experience preferred
Hands-on experience with cell-based ELISA IVRPE or potency assays with appropriate technical understanding
Experience working with adherent mammalian cell lines
Experience with plate-based assays and multichannel pipetting
Familiarity with plate reader software electronic laboratory documentation and routine data analysis
Experience with serial dilutions reagent preparation and assay setup
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow detailed procedures consistently
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
Adaptability in a fast-paced laboratory setting
Strong organizational and time management skills
Pay & Benefits
At Moderna we believe that when you feel your best you can do your best work. Thats why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support youat work at home and everywhere in between.
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
About Moderna
Since our founding in 2010 we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.
By living our mission values and mindsets every day our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients our employees the environment and our communities.
We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.
If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine we invite you to visit to learn more about our current opportunities.
Our Working Model
As we build our company we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation teamwork and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn contribute and make a meaningful impact.
Moderna is a smoke-free alcohol-free and drug-free work environment.
Equal Opportunities
Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a persons race color sex gender identity or expression age religion national origin ancestry or citizenship ethnicity disability military or protected veteran status genetic information sexual orientation marital or familial status or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day please apply!
Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories consistent with legal requirements.
Accommodations
Were focused on attracting retaining developing and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences backgrounds and ideas we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.
Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at .
Export Control Notice This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such employment is contingent upon the applicants ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens permanent residents asylees or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license. #LI-TR2-
Required Experience:
IC
About Company
Learn how we’re changing the world of medicine. Discover career opportunities, our product pipeline, and browse media resources. Meet Moderna.