Senior Nucleic Acid Research Associate, mRNA Tech

Moderna; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive healthcare

Well-being resources

Paid time off

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Moderna is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Nucleic Acid Technology team in Cambridge, MA. You will execute molecular biology workflows, synthesize and characterize mRNA and nucleic acids, and support multiple research programs through hands-on lab work and data analysis.

As you build expertise, you will troubleshoot challenges, document results, and collaborate with cross-functional partners to advance technology development in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment.

Qualifications

• B.S. and/or MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bioanalytical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, or related field with 2-5+ years for B.S.; 0-3+ years for Master’s.
• Hands-on molecular biology techniques such as PCR, IVT, or related enzymatic workflows.
• Experience with nucleic acid purification and characterization using chromatographic/analytical techniques.
• Ability to independently execute laboratory experiments, analyze data, and maintain accurate scientific documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and communication skills.
• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time.

Responsibilities

• Perform nucleic acid synthesis, purification, and characterization using molecular biology, chromatographic, and analytical techniques.
• Independently execute laboratory experiments while adapting established protocols to meet project-specific requirements.
• Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data in accordance with laboratory procedures.
• Troubleshoot laboratory workflows and contribute to process and method improvements.
• Support implementation and optimization of new laboratory methods and technologies.
• Train and mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory culture.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and support general laboratory operations while complying with safety and documentation standards.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to support multiple research programs.
• Demonstrate accountability, scientific curiosity, and flexibility while managing multiple priorities.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

PCR

IVT

Data analysis

Education

BS/MS in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS

Capillary electrophoresis

Fragment Analyzer

Automated liquid handling

Job description

Moderna is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Nucleic Acid Technology team in Cambridge, MA. You will execute molecular biology workflows, synthesize and characterize mRNA and nucleic acids, and support multiple research programs through hands-on lab work and data analysis.

As you build expertise, you will troubleshoot challenges, document results, and collaborate with cross-functional partners to advance technology development in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment.