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Sr. Research Associate, Protein Design

Moderna

Cambridge, MAOnsitePosted 35 days ago$74,000.00 - $118,400.00
Full TimeEntry LevelResearch & ScientistBiotechnology
Original posting ↗

Summary

Moderna is seeking a Senior Research Associate to join the Protein Design team at its Cambridge, MA site. This role will support protein expression, purification, and biophysical characterization efforts for Infectious Disease Research vaccine and therapeutic programs.

Job description

Here's What You'll Do

  • Execute and optimize recombinant protein expression workflows in mammalian and bacterial (E. coli) expression systems.
  • Perform transient mammalian cell culture and transfection for protein production.
  • Conduct recombinant protein purification using chromatography-based methods including affinity, ion exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography utilizing FPLC systems.
  • Support development and optimization of expression, purification, and formulation conditions for challenging proteins and complex antigens.
  • Characterize proteins using biochemical and biophysical techniques including SDS-PAGE, western blotting, SEC-MALS, DSC, DSF, BLI, Mass Photometry, and flow cytometry-based approaches.
  • Evaluate protein purity, stability, oligomeric state, aggregation, and biomolecular interactions to support candidate assessment and advancement.
  • Analyze, interpret, and summarize experimental data and communicate findings through presentations, technical reports, and project team discussions.
  • Develop and implement AI-assisted workflows for high-throughput protein screening and characterization.
  • Leverage AI to accelerate analysis of protein screening datasets and identify high-performing candidates.
  • Collaborate closely with scientists and cross-functional teams to support project goals, timelines, and deliverables.
  • Identify technical challenges and troubleshoot protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows.
  • Support implementation and evaluation of new protein production and characterization technologies to improve workflow efficiency.
  • Maintain accurate experimental records and support inventory management, reagent tracking, and logistics coordination for partnered programs.

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

  • Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, Protein Engineering, Chemical Biology, or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience.
  • Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression in both mammalian and bacterial (E. coli) systems.

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

  • Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, Protein Engineering, Chemical Biology, or a related scientific discipline with 4+ years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience.
  • Experience with protein purification workflows and operation of FPLC systems.
  • Experience with biochemical and biophysical characterization methods including SDS-PAGE, western blotting, SEC-MALS, DSC, DSF, BLI, Mass Photometry, or related techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows.
  • Experience analyzing protein quality, stability, aggregation, and biomolecular interactions.
  • Strong quantitative data analysis and scientific problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities in a collaborative, cross-functional research environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biomedical Science, Protein Engineering, Chemical Biology, or a related scientific discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience.
  • Hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression in both mammalian and bacterial (E. coli) systems.
  • Experience with protein purification workflows and operation of FPLC systems.
  • Experience with biochemical and biophysical characterization methods including SDS-PAGE, western blotting, SEC-MALS, DSC, DSF, BLI, Mass Photometry, or related techniques.
  • Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot and optimize protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows.
  • Experience analyzing protein quality, stability, aggregation, and biomolecular interactions.
  • Strong quantitative data analysis and scientific problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple experiments and priorities in a collaborative, cross-functional research environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits

  • Competitive healthcare
  • Voluntary benefit programs
  • Fitness support
  • Mindfulness support
  • Mental health support
  • Fertility support
  • Adoption support
  • Surrogacy support
  • Paid time off
  • Vacation
  • Volunteer days
  • Sabbatical
  • Global recharge days
  • Year-end shutdown
  • Savings and investments
  • Location-specific perks

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.

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