Co-Op, Bacteriology

The Role

Our Spring/Summer Co-op Program runs from January 18, 2027 through June 25, 2027. All applicants must be available for the full duration of the program.

Moderna's Bacterial Immunology team is seeking a highly motivated and adaptable Co-op to join our team in support of developing new mRNA-based vaccines. Our ideal candidate will enthusiastically contribute to our work through execution and optimization of binding and functional antibody assays.

The Moderna Research Co-op Program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently pursuing an undergraduate or advanced degree in the life sciences. During the co-op, you will learn about the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry and gain valuable hands-on experience in one of the most bold and relentless companies currently leading the field in mRNA-LNP science.

You will work under the supervision of an experienced Moderna team member and will have opportunities for cross-team collaboration, networking and mentorship. You will develop laboratory skills and gain experience in laboratory safety, experimental design, data analysis and scientific documentation.

Here's What You'll Do

• Learn and apply new laboratory techniques while accurately following established protocols.
• Assist in the execution and optimization of bacterial and immunological assays to support vaccine programs, including antibody binding, toxin neutralization, antibody-dependent complement deposition and opsonophagocytic assays.
• Independently execute experiments and maintain thorough, accurate experimental documentation.
• Analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate experimental data.
• Deliver reproducible, high-quality results within established timelines.

Here's What You'll Need (Minimum Qualifications)

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program with a focus on Microbiology, Molecular Genetics, Bacteriology, Biology, Molecular Biology or another related field.
• Fundamental knowledge of and/or hands-on experience with wet lab techniques, including pipetting, serial dilution, aseptic technique, bacterial growth and mammalian cell culture.
• Ability to identify and apply relevant scientific knowledge and experimental protocols from the literature.
• Legal authorization to work in the US.

Here's What You'll Bring to the Table

• Candidates with strong knowledge or hands-on experience in at least one of the following techniques are encouraged to apply: protein detection (e.g., ELISA, Western blot) or cell characterization (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy).
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and identify, evaluate and communicate alternative approaches.
• Enthusiasm for aligning with our core values through curiosity in exploring new approaches, boldness in proposing creative ideas, collaboration across multifunctional teams and relentlessness in driving successful outcomes.

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.

Pay & Benefits

At Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work. That's why our co-op benefits are designed to support you during your time with us -at work, at home, and everywhere in between.

• Free premium access to meditation and mindfulness classes
• Subsidized commuter benefits
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick time, holidays, volunteer days, and a discretionary year-end shutdown
• Location-specific perks and extras

The salary range for this role is $20.00 - $60.00. 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.
• 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.