Sr. Research Associate, Research Analytics, Nucelic Acid Technology

The Role

The Nucleic Acid Technology team, part of the greater Research Analytics organization, supports research across Moderna through the synthesis and characterization of mRNA and other nucleic acids that enable therapeutic and technology development programs. This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the delivery of high-quality research materials through hands‑on laboratory work, scientific problem‑solving, and cross‑functional collaboration. The successful candidate will execute established molecular biology workflows, analyze experimental data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory methods and operations.

Although many laboratory processes are well established, each project presents unique challenges that require scientific curiosity, sound judgment, and a commitment to quality. Success in this role requires strong technical execution, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while balancing multiple priorities in a collaborative, fast‑paced research environment. As technical expertise develops, the individual will become increasingly independent and a trusted resource within the laboratory.

• Perform nucleic acid synthesis, purification, and characterization using molecular biology, chromatographic, and analytical techniques.
• Independently execute laboratory experiments while adapting established protocols to meet project‑specific requirements.
• Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Troubleshoot laboratory workflows and contribute to process and method improvements.
• Support implementation and optimization of new laboratory methods and technologies.
• Train and mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory culture.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and support general laboratory operations while complying with safety and documentation standards.
• Collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams to support multiple research programs.
• Demonstrate accountability, scientific curiosity, and flexibility while managing multiple priorities.

• B.S. and/or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioanalytical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline with relevant industry experience (2‑5+ years for B.S.; 0‑3+ years for Master’s).
• Hands‑on experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, IVT, or related enzymatic workflows.
• Experience with nucleic acid purification and characterization using chromatographic and analytical techniques.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute laboratory experiments, analyze data, and maintain accurate scientific documentation.
• Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while delivering high‑quality results in a fast‑paced research environment.
• Ability to operate with urgency, accountability, and transparency in a dynamic environment.
• This position is site‑based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full‑time. This position is not eligible for remote work.

• Experience working with RNA or other nucleic acid‑based technologies.
• Experience operating analytical instrumentation such as HPLC, LC‑MS, capillary electrophoresis, Fragment Analyzer, or comparable platforms.
• Experience troubleshooting molecular biology methods and contributing to laboratory or process improvements.
• Experience training, mentoring, or onboarding laboratory personnel.
• Familiarity with automated liquid handling systems or laboratory automation technologies.
• Demonstrated scientific curiosity and a desire to understand the principles underlying laboratory techniques and processes.
• Ability to exercise sound scientific judgment and independently execute experimental work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly summarize technical data and experimental observations.
• Comfort working in a highly collaborative, matrixed environment with evolving priorities.

At Moderna, we…