Co-Op, Bacteriology
Moderna
Summary
Moderna’s Bacterial Immunology team is seeking a highly motivated and adaptable Co-op to join our team in support of developing new mRNA-based vaccines. Our ideal candidate will enthusiastically contribute to our work through execution and optimization of binding and functional antibody assays. The Moderna Research Co-op Program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently pursuing an undergraduate or advanced degree in the life sciences.
Job description
Here’s What You’ll Do
- Learn and apply new laboratory techniques while accurately following established protocols.
- Assist in the execution and optimization of bacterial and immunological assays to support vaccine programs, including antibody binding, toxin neutralization, antibody-dependent complement deposition and opsonophagocytic assays.
- Independently execute experiments and maintain thorough, accurate experimental documentation.
- Analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate experimental data.
- Deliver reproducible, high-quality results within established timelines.
Here’s What You’ll Need (Minimum Qualifications)
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program with a focus on Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, Bacteriology, Biology, Molecular Biology or another related field.
- Fundamental knowledge of and/or hands-on experience with wet lab techniques, including pipetting, serial dilution, aseptic technique, bacterial growth and mammalian cell culture.
- Ability to identify and apply relevant scientific knowledge and experimental protocols from the literature.
- Legal authorization to work in the US.
Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
- Candidates with strong knowledge or hands-on experience in at least one of the following techniques are encouraged to apply: protein detection (e.g., ELISA, Western blot) or cell characterization (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy).
- Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and identify, evaluate and communicate alternative approaches.
- Enthusiasm for aligning with our core values through curiosity in exploring new approaches, boldness in proposing creative ideas, collaboration across multifunctional teams and relentlessness in driving successful outcomes.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program with a focus on Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, Bacteriology, Biology, Molecular Biology or another related field.
- Fundamental knowledge of and/or hands-on experience with wet lab techniques, including pipetting, serial dilution, aseptic technique, bacterial growth and mammalian cell culture.
- Ability to identify and apply relevant scientific knowledge and experimental protocols from the literature.
- Legal authorization to work in the US.
- Strong knowledge or hands-on experience in at least one of the following techniques: protein detection (e.g., ELISA, Western blot) or cell characterization (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy).
- Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and identify, evaluate and communicate alternative approaches.
Benefits
- Meditation and mindfulness classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits
- Paid time off
- Vacation
- Sick time
- Holidays
- Volunteer days
- Discretionary year-end shutdown
Company overview
Moderna, Inc. is a pioneering American biotechnology and pharmaceutical company headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that has revolutionized the field of medicine through its groundbreaking messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Founded in 2010, the company has established itself as a global leader in RNA therapeutics, primarily focusing on mRNA vaccines and treatments. Moderna's innovative platform uses mRNA to provide cellular instructions for producing proteins that trigger immune responses, creating a new category of medicines with significant potential to improve patient outcomes across various therapeutic areas. The company gained worldwide recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic for developing one of the earliest and most effective mRNA vaccines, which demonstrated the transformative potential of its technology platform. Beyond infectious diseases, Moderna is advancing a diverse pipeline of 44 treatment and vaccine candidates across infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune conditions. With approximately 5,800 employees and a strong commitment to scientific innovation, Moderna continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities and research initiatives to deliver the greatest possible impact through mRNA medicines.