Co-Op, Protein Design
Moderna
Summary
This is a full-time co-op based in Norwood, MA from January 18th - June 25th, 2027. Candidates must be available for the entire duration of the program. The Structural Biology Research Co-Op will support laboratory operations within Moderna's Tundra laboratory at the Norwood manufacturing site. The position provides hands-on exposure to X-ray crystallography techniques, protein structure modeling, research documentation practices, and laboratory robotics operations supporting programs within Infectious Disease.
Job description
Here's What You'll Do
- Partner with experienced structural biology scientists to learn and apply core X-Ray crystallography laboratory techniques.
- Prepare proteins, solutions, and screens required for routine X-ray crystallography experiments.
- Design experiments and operate laboratory robotics to perform screening and optimization experiments.
- Learn to model and refine 3D protein structures with various crystallographic software.
- Opportunity to gain knowledge and work alongside Cryo-EM scientists.
- Support laboratory organization and general housekeeping activities.
- Maintain good research documentation practices and present data to the team.
- Maintain a safe laboratory environment and follow all site safety and compliance requirements.
- Complete all required training assignments in a timely manner.
- Contribute to special projects and continuous improvement initiatives as assigned.
Here's What You'll Need (Minimum Qualifications)
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in a STEM field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline).
- Foundational laboratory skills applicable to research.
- 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)
- GPA of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent academic achievement.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a team environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skill.
- High attention to detail and commitment to quality and compliance.
- Interest in working within a research laboratory environment.
- Background in or a strong desire to learn structural biology (X-ray crystallography and Cryo-EM).
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in a STEM field (e.g., Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline).
- Foundational laboratory skills applicable to research.
- Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship.
Benefits
- Meditation and mindfulness classes
- Subsidized commuter benefits
- Paid time off
- 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.