RNA Production Research Associate I

Flagship Pioneering, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 43,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Terrana Biosciences is seeking a Research Associate I to join our IVT Production team in Cambridge, MA to generate high-quality RNA materials for discovery and product development. The role emphasizes DNA assembly, cloning, IVT workflows, and rigorous record-keeping to support fast-paced research programs.

The candidate will work with Molecular Biology, Discovery, Sequencing, and Bioinformatics teams, contributing to workflow optimization while maintaining quality and reproducibility in an

Qualifications

• B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, or a related field.
• RA I: B.S. Degree and up to 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in academic or industry settings
• RA II: B.S. Degree and 2–4 years or M.S. and up to 2 years of relevant laboratory experience in academic or industry settings
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques, including PCR, nucleic acid handling, and gel electrophoresis.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
• Preferred: Experience with RNA handling, in vitro transcription, or nucleic acid purification workflows.
• Familiarity with high-throughput laboratory operations, automation platforms, or LIMS systems.
• Experience in synthetic biology, RNA biology, or agricultural biotechnology.

Responsibilities

• Execute DNA assembly and molecular cloning workflows to generate constructs supporting research and RNA production.
• Perform bacterial transformation, colony screening, plasmid preparation, and sequence verification to identify and confirm successful constructs.
• Execute in vitro transcription (IVT) workflows to produce RNA supporting research and development programs.
• Perform RNA synthesis, purification, quantification, and quality control using established laboratory methods.
• Prepare DNA templates, reagents, and materials required for IVT production workflows.
• Conduct routine molecular biology techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, and nucleic acid quantification.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and track samples using electronic laboratory systems.
• Support high-throughput RNA production operations while ensuring quality, reproducibility, and timely delivery.
• Contribute to workflow optimization, process improvements, and laboratory organization.
• Collaborate with Molecular Biology, Discovery, Sequencing, and Bioinformatics teams to support project objectives.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Record-keeping

Education

B.S. or M.S. in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry/Biotechnology/Genetics

Tools

PCR

Gel electrophoresis

Nucleic acid handling

LIMS systems

Job description

Terrana Biosciences is seeking a Research Associate I to join our IVT Production team in Cambridge, MA to generate high-quality RNA materials for discovery and product development. The role emphasizes DNA assembly, cloning, IVT workflows, and rigorous record-keeping to support fast-paced research programs.

The candidate will work with Molecular Biology, Discovery, Sequencing, and Bioinformatics teams, contributing to workflow optimization while maintaining quality and reproducibility in an