Research Associate, Analytical Development

The Role

Moderna is seeking a Research Associate for a position based at the Norwood, MA site. This individual will contribute to the development, refinement, and implementation of cell-based bioassays supporting release and stability testing for mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. The ideal candidate is detail‑oriented, collaborative, and eager to learn in a fast‑paced environment. The role requires close partnership with multidisciplinary teams (Quality, Process Development, and Research) to generate scientifically rigorous data for both clinical and commercial programs.

• Execute cell-based bioassays to evaluate potency and biological activity of mRNA-based medicines
• Support assay development, optimization, troubleshooting, and qualification activities under guidance
• Perform routine cell culture and maintain cell lines
• Analyze and document experimental data with accuracy and attention to detail
• Assist in identifying sources of assay variability and supporting efforts to enhance assay robustness
• Follow established protocols, SOPs, and regulatory expectations
• Contribute to authoring technical documents such as protocols and reports
• Collaborate with team members and cross‑functional partners to support project timelines

• BS degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Immunology, Biological Engineering, or related field with 0–3+ years of relevant experience
• Hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, transient transfections, bioassays or related biological techniques
• Demonstrated scientific curiosity and ability to learn new experimental techniques, troubleshoot challenges and adapt in a fast‑paced research environment
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow protocols accurately
• Basic data analysis and problem‑solving skills
• Experience maintaining laboratory notebooks and documenting experimental work in a clear and organized manner
• Strong communicator with a team‑oriented mindset
• Familiarity with Graph Pad Prism, data visualization, and basic statistical concepts is a plus
• Familiarity with techniques such as ELISA, cell‑based assays, or reporter assays is a plus
• Exposure to nucleic acid therapeutics and delivery technologies (e.g., RNA, DNA, LNP, viral vectors) is a plus
• 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 believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That’s why our benefits and well‑being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Competitive healthcare, 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 investments to help you plan for the future
• Location‑specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $63,200.00 – $. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs.

The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non‑discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person’s 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…