Sr. Research Associate, NGS platform

The Role

In this role, you will be a key contributor within the Genome Sciences team, supporting efforts across Moderna’s mRNA platform to advance therapeutic programs and impact patients.

You will own and execute end-to-end next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows, from nucleic acid extraction through library preparation, sequencing, and data QC. Your work will generate high-quality, decision-driving datasets that directly inform platform research and therapeutic program advancement.

This team operates in a hybrid model – a centralized genomics platform with the flexibility to embed within project teams as needed – supporting work that ranges from single-sample, high-complexity studies to high-throughput production workflows. We operate with a shared ownership mindset: collective responsibility for platform success, paired with individual ownership of execution, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.

The ideal candidate brings strong molecular biology expertise, hands-on NGS experience, and a collaborative, shared-ownership mindset, with the ability to independently troubleshoot, adapt, and scale assays in a fast-paced environment. Experience with downstream molecular and/or cell-based assays is a plus.

The candidate must thrive in a fast pace environment with high expectations. Integrity, ability to share experimental issues and troubleshoot, curiosity, collaborative spirit, respect for people, exemplary work ethic and setting the bar high are key values to thrive in our Team.

Here’s What You Will Do

• Own nucleic acid extraction workflows from diverse samples, leveraging automated liquid handling systems
• Ensure sample quality through accurate quantification, qualification, and normalization
• Prepare RNA and DNA sequencing libraries using kit-based and custom workflows
• Perform library QC, pooling, and sequencing setup for Illumina and Nanopore platforms
• Operate and maintain sequencing instruments to ensure consistent performance and uptime
• Troubleshoot workflow issues, identify and communicate root causes, and implement improvements
• Adapt workflows to project needs across low-throughput and high-throughput scales
• Contribute to development, optimization, and scaling of NGS workflows and lab processes
• Deliver high-quality, reproducible data that rightly balances fast turnaround time and experimental rigor
• Analyze and interpret QC metrics and experimental data; communicate results to stakeholders
• Collaborate with computational and experimental teams to ensure data quality and usability
• Maintain clear, accurate documentation in LIMS and ELN systems
• Contribute to team success through shared ownership, collaboration, and gap-filling where needed
• Support buildout and continuous improvement of NGS infrastructure and workflows

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

• BS/BA in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience in an NGS-focused lab (academic, core facility, or industry)
• Hands-on experience with sequencing library preparation and strong foundation in molecular biology techniques
• Experience operating standard NGS instrumentation, such as:
  • Nanodrop, Qubit, Fragment analysis instruments
  • Liquid handlers (e.g., Echo, Mantis, or Hamilton)
  • qPCR and/or ddPCR systems
  • Illumina and/or Nanopore sequencing platforms
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute and troubleshoot workflows with minimal oversight
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple workflows in parallel
• Ability to take ownership of work while contributing to a highly collaborative team environment
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for cross-functional science
• Proven passion for high-quality, reproducible data
• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work
• At Moderna, we are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. 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)

• BS/BA in Biology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience in an NGS-focused lab (academic, core facility, or industry)
• Experience working across varying scales of experimentation (low-throughput to high-throughput)
• Experience with complex workflows [e.g., low-input samples, automation, single-cell genomics]
• Experience interpreting sequencing QC metrics and data quality outputs
• Experience supporting drug development or platform-based research programs
• Experience contributing to assay development, optimization, or technology evaluation
• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that values Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative thinking

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our US benefits and global well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Best-in-class healthcare coverage, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs

• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support

• Family planning benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy support

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown

• Savings and investment opportunities to help you plan for the future

• Location-specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $74,000.00 - $118,400.00. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. An individual’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, performance, and business or organizational needs. The successful candidate may be eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, other incentive compensation, or equity award, subject to company plan eligibility criteria and individual performance.

About Moderna

Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.  

By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities. 

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S. 

If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities. 

Our Working Model 

As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact. 

Moderna is a smoke-free, alcohol-free, and drug-free work environment. 

Equal Opportunities

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law.  Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply!

Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. 

Accommodations

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best. 

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at leavesandaccommodations@modernatx.com. 

Export Control Notice This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant’s ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license.

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