Sr. Research Associate, Cancer Vaccines Research

Job Description

Moderna is committed to harnessing the power of mRNA technology to revolutionize cancer immunotherapy. We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Senior Research Associate to support the advancement of our cancer vaccine platform through pre-clinical studies. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a cutting-edge pipeline through hands-on in vitro and in vivo experimentation, with a focus on deep immune profiling.

The successful candidate will bring substantial experience in flow cytometry and cellular immunology, with the ability to independently execute, troubleshoot, and refine immune-based assays. This role requires scientific curiosity, flexibility, and a strong collaborative spirit. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to design, implement, and analyze experiments that inform cancer vaccine discovery and development.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Develop, optimize, and execute primary immune cell-based assays using mouse and human samples to evaluate responses to mRNA-based cancer vaccines.
• Design and implement high-parameter flow cytometry panels for in-depth immune profiling; analyze and interpret complex cytometry data.
• Isolate and culture immune cell subsets from blood, tumors, and lymphoid tissues using standard and novel techniques.
• Collect and process samples from pre-clinical in vivo models to assess vaccine immunogenicity and mechanism of action.
• Execute and adapt protocols with minimal guidance; troubleshoot and incorporate new techniques by reviewing current literature.
• Collaborate across functional teams to plan studies, interpret results, and share findings through presentations and written reports.
• Maintain rigorous documentation and contribute to regulatory filings and project deliverables.
  

Here’s What You’ll Bring To The Table

• BS with 2+ years of relevant experience or MS with 0+ years in immunology, immuno-oncology, cancer biology, or related fields.
• Strong preference for industry experience supporting immunology-focused drug discovery or translational research.
• Proven expertise in ex vivo functional assays, including flow cytometry, ELISpot, ELISA, and reporter-based systems.
• Hands-on experience with immune cell isolation and culture from both human and murine sources.
• Independent proficiency in high-parameter flow cytometry (including intracellular cytokine staining); experience with BD and/or Cytek platforms preferred.
• Familiarity with in vivo models of cancer or immunization, including sample collection and basic procedures.
• Strong critical thinking and communication skills with the ability to proactively identify and address experimental challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment while maintaining attention to detail and scientific rigor.
  

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 a suite of voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needs
• A holistic approach to well-being, with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health support
• Lifestyle Spending Accounts to personalize your well-being journey
• Family planning and adoption benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Savings and investment opportunities
• Location-specific perks and extras

Link: https://modernatx.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/M_tx/job/Cambridge-Massachusetts/Sr-Research-Associate–Cancer-Vaccines-Research_R17856