Sr. Research Associate, RNA Innovation

Initial Therapeutics, Inc.; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 74,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive healthcare

Well-being resources

Family planning benefits

Generous paid time off

Savings and investments

Job summary

Moderna is seeking a Senior Research Associate for the RNA Innovation team in Cambridge, MA. This early laboratory-based role focuses on the chemical biology of mRNA and how RNA modifications affect metabolism and performance.

The candidate will design experiments using in vitro biochemistry and cell-line methods to study target mRNAs. Strong initiative, ownership, and ability to drive projects with urgency are essential.

Qualifications

• MS in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with 2+ years experience; 3–5 years preferred.
• Knowledge of nucleic acids biochemistry/chemical biology.
• Experience with RNA.
• Site-based role; US work authorization required; remote work not offered.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute methods to study the stability and translation of modified mRNA using cell lines and in vitro biochemistry.
• Implement analytical approaches such as RT/qPCR, chromatography, and mass spectrometry to analyze RNAs.
• Develop and execute Next Generation Sequencing library preparation protocols.
• Maintain cell lines, equipment, scientific records, and an organized lab space.
• Communicate scientific findings to colleagues and collaborators in formal and informal settings.

Skills

RNA chemistry

In vitro biochemistry

Cell culture techniques

Experimental planning

Scientific communication

Education

MS in Biochemistry or related field

Tools

RT-qPCR

Chromatography

Mass spectrometry

NGS library preparation

Job description

The Role:

Moderna is seeking a Senior Research Associate for a position in the RNA Innovation team, located in Cambridge, MA. In this early research laboratory-based position, the candidate will focus on the chemical biology of mRNA, discovering and characterizing how RNA modifications impact RNA metabolism and performance. The researcher will design and plan experiments implementing in vitro biochemical approaches as well as cell line techniques to investigate mRNAs of interest. In addition to strong technical skills, the role requires a high level of initiative, ownership, and the ability to drive projects forward with urgency. Prior academic or industrial experience in a laboratory focusing on RNA is strongly preferred. Ideal candidates should have a strong interest in the biochemistry of nucleic acids, enjoy working in a dynamic environment, and be flexible in working both individually and within cross-functional teams.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Develop and execute methods to study the stability and translation of modified mRNA using cell lines and in vitro biochemistry
• Implement analytical approaches such as RT/qPCR, chromatography, and mass spectrometry to analyze RNAs
• Develop and execute Next Generation Sequencing library preparation protocols
• Maintain cell lines, equipment, scientific records, and an organized lab space
• Communicate scientific findings to colleagues and collaborators in formal and informal settings

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• MS in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field with 2+ years of experience. Candidates with 3-5 years of experience are preferred
• Knowledge of biochemistry/chemical biology of nucleic acids
• Experience working with RNA
• 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.

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Experience with mammalian cell culture and relevant techniques preferred
• Experience with some analytical approaches relevant to RNA (such as but not limited to gel electrophoresis, qPCR, Next Generation Sequencing, chromatography, etc.)
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and collaborative skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic environment
• Ability to quickly master new scientific techniques and concepts
• Excellent record-keeping
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative

Pay & Benefits

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

• 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 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 several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational 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

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 for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S.

Our Working Model

As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact.

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment.

Equal Opportunities

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law.Moderna is a place where everyone can grow.

Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements.

Accommodations

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best.

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at [e-mail].

Export Control NoticeThis 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.