Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Moderna is a biotechnology company advancing mRNA science to transform medicine and deliver innovative therapies. The Senior Research Associate will execute and optimize cell-based and ELISA bioassays supporting development, characterization, release, and stability programs across Moderna’s mRNA pipeline, while contributing to troubleshooting, method transfers, automation, and technical guidance.
Responsibilities
- 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
Skills
- * 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
- Export Control Notice This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant's ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license
- * 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 performance
- * Experience training or mentoring junior staff
- * Strong attention to detail and ability to follow and improve detailed procedures
- * Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
- * Adaptability in a fast-paced laboratory setting
- * Strong organizational and time management skills
Benefits
- 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 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
- This position is not eligible for remote work
- Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model.
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