Research Associate, Analytical Technical Operations
Moderna
Summary
The Analytical Technical Operations (ATO) team seeks a motivated contingent worker with hands-on experience in analytical chemistry to support CMC Development programs. This laboratory-based role will focus heavily on the execution of analytical testing to support process development, characterization, and data generation across Moderna's pipeline. This is an onsite role based in Moderna's Technology Center campus in Norwood, MA.
Job description
Here's What You'll Do
- Prepare samples, execute analytical testing, and perform routine data analysis with rapid turnaround times.
- Operate and maintain analytical instrumentation including, but not limited to: UPLC/HPLC, LC/MS, LC/CAD, qPCR, DLS, plate readers, and liquid handlers.
- Perform peer data review and support interpretation of results.
- Assist with method troubleshooting and routine laboratory equipment troubleshooting.
- Collaborate with process development colleagues to communicate analytical results and observations.
- Support high-throughput testing workflows and routine laboratory operations.
- Contribute to method optimization efforts under the guidance of senior team members.
- Execute improvement initiatives to enhance lab efficiency and analytical performance.
- Maintain accurate and compliant documentation of experiments.
- Adhere to all safety protocols and standard operating procedures in the laboratory.
Here's What You'll Need (Basic Qualifications)
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Analytical Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.
- Experience: Minimum 0-2 years of experience in analytical chemistry, process development, technical operations, or related laboratory environment.
- Foundational understanding of chromatography and analytical characterization techniques.
- Knowledge of good laboratory practices and documentation standards.
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities.
Here's What You'll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)
- Experience with chromatography techniques including IEX and RP separations with UV, MS, or CAD detection.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques such as ELISA and qPCR.
- Familiarity with biophysical characterization techniques such as DLS.
- Exposure to integrated laboratory automation platforms (Hamilton, Tecan, Echo).
- Experience with laboratory software systems including Chromeleon (or similar LC software), QuantStudio, LIMS, ELN, and Microsoft Office.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment.
- Motivated, detail-oriented, and adaptable in a fast-paced setting.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Analytical Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related scientific discipline
- Minimum 0-2 years of experience in analytical chemistry, process development, technical operations, or related laboratory environment
- Foundational understanding of chromatography and analytical characterization techniques
- Knowledge of good laboratory practices and documentation standards
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent priorities
Benefits
- Competitive healthcare
- Voluntary benefit programs
- Fitness support
- Mindfulness support
- Mental health support
- Family planning benefits
- Fertility support
- Adoption support
- Surrogacy support
- Generous paid time off
- Vacation
- Volunteer days
- Sabbatical
- Global recharge days
- Year-end shutdown
- Savings and investments
- Location-specific perks
- Annual discretionary bonus
- Equity award
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.