Sr. Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations

The Role:

Joining Moderna means advancing mRNA science to transform medicine. Work with exceptional global teams on a broad pipeline and build a career that makes a real difference for patients.

Moderna is strengthening its presence in Norwood, Massachusetts, a cornerstone of our manufacturing and operational excellence. Our Norwood campus translates mRNA science into scalable impact, supporting the global delivery of our medicines. We welcome talent ready to drive innovation and make a meaningful difference for patients worldwide.

As a Senior Research Associate within Analytical Technical Operations, you will execute critical bioassay testing to support development, characterization, release, and stability programs across Moderna’s mRNA pipeline.
You will operate in a fast-paced laboratory environment, delivering precise, consistent, and high-quality assay execution while contributing to troubleshooting and continuous improvement.
This individual contributor role blends hands-on scientific expertise in cell-based and ELISA assays with increasing ownership of assay performance, workflow optimization, and implementation of advanced and automated analytical capabilities.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

Perform routine cell-based ELISA assays to evaluate in vitro relative protein expression (IVRPE) across development, characterization, release, and stability samples.

Culture and maintain mammalian cell lines using aseptic technique, ensuring optimal cell health, confluency, and viability.

Prepare assay plates, execute transfections, and manage multi-day workflows with precision and consistency.

Conduct serial dilutions, reagent preparation, sample handling, and plate-based assay execution in alignment with established protocols.

Monitor assay performance and respond to routine experimental issues with limited oversight, applying strong troubleshooting skills.

Operate laboratory instrumentation including plate readers, plate washers, incubators, biosafety cabinets, and associated equipment.

Acquire, review, and analyze experimental data using established tools, including curve fitting methodologies.

Maintain accurate, organized, and inspection-ready records within laboratory systems and notebooks.

Provide day-to-day technical guidance to Research Associates on assay execution, laboratory best practices, and troubleshooting fundamentals.

Troubleshoot experimental challenges, support investigations, and proactively identify opportunities to enhance assay robustness, efficiency, and scalability.

Lead or contribute to optimization of assay protocols and workflows to improve data quality, throughput, and readiness for automation.

Support method transfers and the implementation of automated workflows, leveraging digital tools and opportunities to engage with emerging generative AI technologies to enhance analytical insights.

Perform additional responsibilities as needed to support evolving Technical Development priorities.

The key Moderna Mindsets you’ll need to succeed in the role:

“We behave like owners. The solutions we’re building go beyond any job description.”

“We obsess over learning. We don’t have to be the smartest we have to learn the fastest.”

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Basic Qualifications)

• MS OR Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related field with 2+ years of relevant laboratory experience

• Hands-on laboratory experience in cell culture and/or bioassays

• Basic understanding of ELISA or immunoassays

• Experience with mammalian cell culture techniques

• Familiarity with aseptic technique

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Master's degree with 2–3 2-3 years of experience, or BS/BA with 3–5 3-5 years of experience in a relevant field

• Hands-on experience with cell-based ELISA, IVRPE, or potency assays

• Strong working knowledge of ELISA, immunoassays, or other plate-based assays

• Experience with mammalian cell culture (adherent and suspension) and aseptic technique

• Experience with plate-based assays, multichannel pipetting, and multi-day assay workflows

• Familiarity with plate reader software, electronic laboratory documentation, and routine data analysis

• Experience with method troubleshooting, assay transfer support, or implementation of improved workflows

• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot experiments and improve assay per