(Contract) Research Associate, Process and Nucleic Acid Innovation

(Contract) Research Associate, Process and Nucleic Acid Innovation

The Role:

This role will conduct research in the Process and Nucleic Acid Innovation group to develop and test novel nucleic acid constructs for use in various interdepartmental projects. A successful candidate will be inquisitive about the science and capable of problem solving by consulting literature and colleagues and designing experiments to test hypotheses. This role will utilize various techniques associated with RNA and DNA synthesis and purification, mammalian cell culture, and in vitro molecular biology. A successful candidate will be excited to learn new skills and contribute to cutting edge science. Researchers with experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, biology, or chemical engineering are encouraged to apply. This assignment is expected to last 12 months.

Here's What You'll Do:

• Design, build, and test novel nucleic acid constructs.
• Perform mammalian cell culture assays to support interdepartmental projects.
• Conduct experiments to develop and validate process improvements.
• Collaborate with other Moderna researchers to execute cross-functional projects.
• Communicate scientific findings to colleagues and collaborators in formal and informal settings.
• Accurately record laboratory activities in an electronic lab notebook.
• Follow Moderna's policies to ensure laboratory safety.

Here's What You'll Bring to the Table:

• BS or MS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 1-3 years of relevant industry or academic research experience.
• Laboratory experience working with RNA and/or DNA.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture is preferred.
• Knowledge of nucleic acid chemistry and biology and standard analysis methods relevant to these molecules (ex. PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, CE, etc.) is preferred.
• Working familiarity with common analytical/purification methods (ex. HPLC, UPLC, LC-MS) is preferred.
• Ability and desire to be a highly effective team player.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to quickly master new scientific techniques and concepts.
• Drive and flexibility to operate in a fast-paced and rapidly changing workplace.
• Robustness to maintain motivation in an ambitiously experimental environment.

Why join Moderna Therapeutics

At Moderna, we believe messenger RNA, or mRNA, is the "software of life." Every cell in the body uses mRNA to provide real-time instructions to make the proteins necessary to drive all aspects of biology, including in human health and disease. Given its essential role, we believe mRNA could be used to create a new category of medicines with significant potential to improve the lives of patients.

Headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., Moderna currently has strategic alliances for development programs with AstraZeneca, Plc. and Merck, Inc., as well as the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Defense; and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), a division of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Moderna has been ranked in the top ten of Science's list of top biopharma industry employers for the past four years. To learn more, visit www.modernatx.com .

Our Mission:
Deliver on the promise of mRNA science to create a new generation of transformative medicines for patients.

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

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Moderna will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.