Senior Research Associate, Flow Cytometry Core

The Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Associate to join our Flow Cytometry Core Team. The successful candidate will play a critical role in supporting method development and execution of high-throughput flow cytometry experiments, and tissue-based sample preparation. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge discovery and translational research programs through high-quality technical execution and scientific collaboration.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Tissue Processing & Sample Preparation

• Develop and execute tissue dissociation protocols for various tissues (e.g., spleen, liver, lung, lymph nodes, bone marrow).

• Isolate and prepare single-cell suspensions for downstream flow cytometry analysis and cell sorting.

• Monitor and document sample quality parameters (e.g., viability, yield, and cell counts).

• Flow Cytometry Staining & Data Acquisition

• Perform multicolor antibody staining for immune phenotyping and functional assays using panels developed in collaboration with scientific leads.

• Operate flow cytometers (e.g., Cytek, Sony, BD) to acquire high-quality, reproducible data in a high-throughput setting.

• Conduct daily instrument QC, compensation setup, and troubleshoot technical issues as needed.

• Cell Sorting

• Assist in preparation and execution of sterile cell sorting workflows under supervision or independently, depending on experience.

• Ensure post-sort sample integrity for downstream applications such as culture, molecular analysis, or sequencing.

• Data Analysis & Documentation

• Use software tools such as FlowJo or OMIQ to perform basic gating, analysis and quality assessments.

• Record experiment metadata and results in a traceable and organized fashion.

• Contribute to the optimization of workflows, SOPs, and best practices within the core.

• Team & Scientific Support

• Work collaboratively with research teams to support experimental timelines and scientific goals.

• Contribute ideas during troubleshooting and optimization discussions.

• Participate in core meetings and training sessions.

Here’s What You’ll Need:

• B.S. or M.S. in Immunology, Cell Biology, or a related life science field. B.S. with 2+ years of experience or M.S. with 0+ years of experience in flow cytometry or cellular immunology.

• Proficiency with multicolor flow cytometry staining, data acquisition and analysis, and tissue processing.

• Experience using cytometers such as Cytek, Sony, BD and analysis tools like FlowJo or OMIQ.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining lab records, reagents, and equipment.

• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, as well as collaboratively with core and project team members.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a solution-oriented mindset.

• Experience with cell sorting.

• Familiarity with automated sample preparation systems and high-throughput workflows.

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus a suite of voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Lifestyle Spending Accounts to personalize your well-being journey
• Family planning and adoption benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities
• 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 communities. 

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace fo