Co-Op, Clinical Cytometry

The Role

This is a co-op opportunity based in Norwood, MA from January 18, 2027 – June 25, 2027. Applicants must be available for the full duration of the co-op term. The Flow Cytometry Group within the Clinical Biomarker Laboratory is continuously developing, expanding, and refining assays to deepen understanding of immune responses and support downstream development activities. In this co-op role, you will contribute to the development and optimization of new and existing workflows by performing laboratory experiments, analyzing data, and helping generate reference datasets that inform assay development and decision-making.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Perform ex vivo stimulation and high-parameter (≥19-color) Intracellular Cytokine Staining (ICS) assays. This advanced technique requires handling live cell samples using aseptic technique, precise pipetting, and strong attention to detail.
• Use ICS assays or other established methods to screen internal PBMC donors for responses to various antigens. These data will be used by the team as a reference to select optimal PBMC samples for development experiments.
• Use established assays to evaluate reagent and sample stability, define assay limitations, develop guidance for assay use, and assess how sample handling and processing affect downstream readouts.
• Gain proficiency in Moderna’s standard PBMC isolation procedure and evaluate alternative approaches by measuring their impact on cell yield, viability, and recovery.
• Develop a basic understanding of spectral cytometry and receive training on the 5-laser Cytek Aurora and SpectroFlo software.
• Analyze flow cytometry data using FCS Express software.
• Support the design, planning, and execution of experiments with appropriate controls, and tabulate, analyze, and present results using tools such as Smartsheet, Excel, GraphPad Prism, and PowerPoint.
• Build technical laboratory skills, data analysis and presentation skills, scientific communication skills, and experience in literature review, while exploring potential career paths.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

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

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in Biomedical Sciences, Biology, Immunology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Basic knowledge of standard laboratory procedures, such as pipetting, and laboratory safety.
• Completion of foundational biology coursework such as cell biology, biochemistry, or laboratory techniques in biology; coursework in immunology is strongly preferred.

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

• Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: cell or tissue culture, flow cytometry, in vitro transfection, protein or antibody detection methods (for example, MSD, ELISA, or Luminex), or assay development and troubleshooting.
• Prior co-op or internship experience is helpful but not required.
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.