Senior Research Associate, Genome Sciences

Overview The Role As part of our vision, Moderna is committed to investing in R&D to further expand our impact on patients. In this role, you will work in the Genome Sciences team to develop and execute cell-based and molecular assays that support programs across Genome Sciences and Moderna’s mRNA platform to develop cellular engineering technologies. You will help generate high-quality, decision-driving data through the design, development, and execution of in vitro experimental systems, with an emphasis on rigorous execution, goal-focused troubleshooting, and cross-functional collaboration. The ideal candidate brings strong immune cell culture experience combined with demonstratable expertise and experience in immediate downstream molecular- and cell-based assays. What You’ll Do Culture, maintain, and experimentally manipulate mammalian cell lines and primary human cells to support assay development and screening activities. Execute cell-based experiments to evaluate nucleic acid delivery, expression, durability, and related molecular and cellular outcomes. Execute flow cytometry-based assays to assess cell phenotype, viability, transfection or expression readouts, and other relevant cellular outcomes. Design, optimize, and execute qPCR assays for DNA and RNA quantification, including primer/probe design, assay qualification, controls, and standard curves. Collaboratively develop and implement ddPCR workflows to quantify vector copy number and other DNA-based readouts relevant to genomic sciences studies. Partner closely across teams to generate high-quality samples and support PCR and potentially other molecular or sequencing workflows. Analyze, interpret, and present high-quality experimental data in accordance with project timelines. Maintain accurate, detailed ELNs and records and help establish robust workflows, controls, and best practices. Execute and troubleshoot standard protocols, independently adapt new methods into practice, and incorporate additional assays as program needs evolve. Additional duties as may be assigned from time to time. Basic Qualifications BS/BA in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, virology, biotechnology, bioengineering, or a related field with 2+ years of experience. Strong mammalian cell culture experience, particularly with primary immune cell types such as T cells and PBMCs, with proven ability to generate reproducible, high-quality data. Demonstrated expertise in qPCR or ddPCR assay design, development, optimization, and data interpretation. Excellent organizational, documentation, and cross-functional communication skills. Enthusiasm and a passion to deliver the greatest possible impact to people through mRNA medicines. 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 are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship. Preferred Qualifications MS with 3+ years of relevant experience in biotech, pharma, or an academically rigorous research environment. Experience with LNP and lipoplex transfection, electroporation, or other nucleic acid delivery workflows. Familiarity with PCR- and NGS-adjacent molecular characterization workflows. Familiarity with cellular engineering systems and tools for cell line generation and genomic medicines. Experience with flow cytometry and cell sorting. Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, troubleshoot, and communicate experiments in a fast-paced research environment. Pay & Benefits 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. Benefits include: Best-in-class healthcare coverage, 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 investment opportunities to help you plan for the future Location-specific perks and extras Salary and Status The salary range for this role is $74,000.00 - $118,400.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on competencies, education, qualifications, experience, skills, performance, and business needs. 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. About Moderna Moderna is focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination. Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We are a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment. We provide accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. For assistance, contact the Accommodations team at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr Moderna Therapeutics