Research Associate Jobs in USA
Advance your scientific career with a high-impact Research Associate role at Moderna through its prestigious Technical Development Rotation Program. Designed for emerging talent seeking Life Science Jobs in cutting-edge mRNA technology, this full-time opportunity in the Jobs In USA market offers hands-on experience, cross-functional exposure, and long-term career growth within one of the world’s most innovative biotech companies. This role is also a strong job opportunity for life science students transitioning into industry.
About Moderna
Founded in 2010, Moderna is a pioneering biotechnology company built on an innovative mRNA technology platform. Through Moderna Careers, scientists and engineers work to transform how medicines are developed and delivered. Recognized as a top biopharma employer, Moderna offers inclusive, high-impact Life Science Jobs that empower employees to change medicine and improve lives worldwide.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Research Associate / Engineer I – Technical Development (2026 Rotation Program)
- Location: Norwood, Massachusetts, United States
- Department: Technical Development
- Employment Type: Full Time
- Requisition ID: R18222
- Start Date: August 3, 2026
- Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite
About the Role
Moderna’s Technical Development Rotation Program offers an exciting opportunity for early-career scientists and engineers to contribute to the development of mRNA therapeutics and vaccines. This full-time role is based in Norwood, MA and includes three 6-month rotations across different areas of Technical Development.
Participants will join high-performing project teams focused on designing and scaling manufacturing processes that support clinical trials and commercial licensure. The program provides hands-on exposure to mRNA synthesis, lipid nanoparticle (LNP) assembly, formulation, and process development, while building a strong foundation in GMP-relevant operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with cross-functional experts to rapidly learn Moderna technologies and processes
- Design, plan, execute, and analyze laboratory experiments
- Generate experimental data, perform statistical and technical analysis, and document results in formal reports
- Support process scale-up, technology transfer, and manufacturing operations at internal and external sites
- Conduct risk assessments to define critical process parameters and control strategies
- Optimize formulation and processing conditions impacting mRNA stability and intermediates
- Develop scaled-down models and high-throughput experimental systems
- Partner with analytical teams to characterize mRNA and lipid nanoparticles
- Review scientific literature and establish internal technical collaborations
- Prepare technical reports and present findings to cross-functional stakeholders
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Basic Qualifications for Research Associate
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in one of the following or a related field:
- Biochemical / Biomolecular Engineering
- Bioengineering / Biomedical Engineering
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Strong foundational scientific and engineering skills
- Hands-on laboratory experience relevant to bioprocess development or analytical methods
- Legal authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship
Preferred Qualifications
- GPA of 3.5 or higher (4.0 scale or equivalent)
- Ability to work independently and contribute effectively to high-performing teams
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Interest in or aptitude for learning GxP, GMP, and GLP regulations
- Motivation to make an impact in a high-growth, mission-driven biotechnology company
Work Requirements
This is a site-based position requiring full-time presence at Moderna’s Norwood, MA facility. Not eligible for remote or hybrid work.
Compensation & Benefits for Research Associate
Salary Range: $63,200 – $100,900 (based on experience, education, skills, and business needs)
Eligible for:
- Annual discretionary bonus and/or equity awards (subject to eligibility)
- Comprehensive healthcare coverage
- Fitness, mental health, and mindfulness resources
- Family planning benefits (fertility, adoption, surrogacy)
- Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, global recharge days, and year-end shutdown
- Savings and investment programs
- Location-specific perks
