Research Associate, Process Development

The Role:

Moderna is working to develop first-in-class messenger RNA (mRNA) based medicines. We’re seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Associate to reside in Moderna’s Technical Development organization in Norwood, MA. This is a lab-based role that will support the early phase process development of Moderna’s mRNA-based medicines to enable our clinical supply and pipeline. The applicant should have strong communication and collaboration skills.

The successful candidate must be able to work in a fast paced and highly dynamic environment and be able to contribute to process development activities. We seek applicants who are proactive, enthusiastic, and show a passion for process development. Applicants should have exceptional time management and communications skills with a strong attention to detail. Significant bioprocess development experience with standard bioprocess unit operations (e.g. enzymatic reactions, mixing, chromatography, tangential flow and/or filtration) is desirable. The position will support cross-functional teams across CMC, Research & Development, Preclinical & GMP Manufacturing, Quality, and Analytical Development.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Develop robust, scalable, and well-characterized processes for manufacturing mRNA.

• Develop and optimize mRNA production and process methodologies.

• Identify and/or optimize unit operations to improve robustness, while maintaining product quality.

• Collaborate cross-functionally in the design of process equipment and control strategies.

• Communicate research findings to internal stake-holders.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• Bachelors in biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, chemical engineering, biological engineering or a related discipline.

• Technical experience in the following areas is preferred: molecular biology techniques (Polymerase Chain Reaction, in vitro transcription), chromatography (HPLC, LC-MS, AKTA), experimental design, assay development and troubleshooting.

• Basic lab capabilities, such as pipetting and buffer preparation, are desired.

• Prior co-op or internship experience is favorable.

• Experience with purification techniques (e.g. SEC, IEX, RP) for macromolecules such as RNA, DNA, proteins/antibodies, peptides will be plus.

• Exceptional oral communication skills

• Ability to effectively document and communicate results.

• Strong interpersonal skills with an eagerness to support colleagues across the organization and a demonstrated aptitude for team and employee development.

• Ability to effectively collaborate effectively in a dynamic, cross-functional matrix environment.

Moderna is pleased to provide you and your family with a comprehensive and innovative suite of benefits, including:

• Highly competitive and inclusive medical, dental and vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical expenses and dependent care expenses
• Lifestyle Spending Account funds to help you engage in personal enrichment and self-care activities
• Family care benefits, including subsidized back-up care options and on-demand tutoring
• Free premium access to fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness classes 
• Exclusive preferred pricing on Peloton fitness equipment
• Adoption and family-planning benefits
• Dedicated care coordination support for our LGBTQ+ community
• Generous paid time off, including:
  •    Vacation, sick time and holidays
  •    Volunteer time to participate within your community
  •    Discretionary year-end shutdown
  •    Paid sabbatical after 5 years; every 3 years thereafter
• Generous Paid Leave offerings, including 18 weeks of 100% paid parental leave for all new parents
• 401k match and Financial Planning tools
• Moderna-paid Life, LTD and STD insurance coverages, as well as voluntary benefit options
• Complimentary concierge service including home services research, travel booking, and entertainment requests
• Free parking or subsidized commuter passes
• 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 comm