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.

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…