Sr. Research Associate, NGS platform

The Role

In this role you will be a key contributor within the Genome Sciences team supporting efforts across Modernas 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.

Heres What You Will Do

• 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

Heres What Youll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• 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 Modernas 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

Heres What Youll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• 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

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 .

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