Senior Research Associate, Analytical Development

Role Summary

Senior Research Associate (SRA) to join the Analytical Development team in Norwood, MA. Develop, optimize, and implement advanced analytical methods supporting Moderna’s therapeutic and vaccine portfolio. Generate high-quality data to drive method development, process understanding, and analytical readiness across new programs and manufacturing platforms. Hands-on, detail-oriented, collaborative, fast-paced environment with strong chromatography, spectroscopy, and separation sciences skills; capable of managing multiple projects and communicating with cross-functional partners in Analytical Development, Process Development, and Quality.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute analytical methods (e.g., HPLC, CE, UV/Vis spectroscopy, ddPCR) to characterize and assess Moderna’s mRNA and LNP-based products.
• Support analytical roadmap implementation, including next-generation methods such as MAM, high-throughput spectroscopy, and advanced separation tools.
• Generate feasibility data and contribute to method development and optimization for novel platforms (e.g., T-cell LNP, meDNA, plasmid manufacturing, oncology programs).
• Conduct bridging studies between legacy and optimized methods, supporting comparability and qualification activities for analytical deep-dive remediation.
• Prepare and analyze samples for method development, qualification support, and technology transfer to QC and ATO.
• Document experimental work in electronic lab notebooks and author technical reports, summaries, and method implementation documents.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with PD and MS&T to ensure analytical readiness for process innovation and scale-up.
• Maintain a strong focus on quality and data integrity, ensuring compliance with internal standards and regulatory expectations.

Qualifications

• BS degree with ≥5 years of relevant industry experience in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related discipline.
• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as HPLC, CE, UV/Vis, spectroscopy, ddPCR, and/or MAM workflows.
• Proven ability to perform method development, troubleshooting, and data analysis in support of biologics, RNA, or complex formulations.
• Familiarity with LNP characterization or nucleic acid-based analytical methods is a plus.
• Strong technical writing and documentation skills.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking ability in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Highly motivated, scientifically curious, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
• Current US work authorization; no immigration sponsorship available for this role.

Skills

• Analytical method development and troubleshooting
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Technical writing and documentation
• Quality and regulatory compliance awareness

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related discipline (minimum 5 years relevant experience).

Additional Requirements

• No immigration sponsorship available; candidates must hold US work authorization.