2026 Co-Op

The Role

The In Vitro Biology Co-op – Cell Line Engineering will support Moderna’s In Vitro Biology team by contributing to the design, generation, and optimization of cell lines to enable high-impact research and development programs. This role is ideal for a highly motivated student eager to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge biotech environment focused on cell and molecular biology. Working closely with experienced scientists, you will assist in executing experiments, maintaining engineered cell lines, and supporting core research activities that directly impact the progress of programs across Moderna’s pipeline. You will gain hands-on experience in cell line development, explore innovative technologies such as CRISPR and synthetic biology, and contribute to process optimization efforts to improve throughput and reproducibility.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Support cell line engineering activities including transfections, viral transductions, and single cell cloning.

• Perform routine cell culture, including maintenance, expansion, and cryopreservation of mammalian cell lines.

• Assist in molecular biology tasks such as plasmid prep, PCR, construct design & validation.

• Use digital tools to track experimental data, update electronic lab notebooks (ELN), and support documentation for reproducibility and compliance.

• Participate in troubleshooting and optimization of protocols to improve efficiency and performance of engineered lines.

• Collaborate with team members on cross-functional research initiatives and present findings in team meetings.

• Explore AI-assisted tools to help with literature review, data interpretation, and process documentation.

• Contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and compliant laboratory environment.

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)

• Enrollment in a bachelor’s program (Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Engineering, or related life science field).

• Coursework or lab experience in cell biology and molecular biology techniques.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Interest in cell engineering and curiosity about gene editing, synthetic biology, or similar technologies.

• Familiarity with basic software tools (Microsoft Office, Google Suite); experience with ELN systems or lab data tools a plus.

• Willingness to learn and contribute in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

• At Moderna, we are focused on delivering on our mission by enabling talent to thrive. For this role, we are currently unable to offer immigration sponsorship. Candidates must already hold work authorization in US and be able to maintain that status without the need for future sponsorship. 

Here’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications)

• Previous lab experience in mammalian cell culture and/or genetic modification techniques (e.g., CRISPR, lentiviral transduction).

• Exposure to cell-based assays, including viability, expression analysis using FACS, or functional assays.

• Familiarity with vector design, high-content imaging, or data analysis software is a bonus.

• A proactive mindset and a passion for solving scientific problems that matter.

• A desire to make an impact as part of a high-growth, transformational company that is Bold, Relentless, Curious, and Collaborative.

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.

• Free premium access to meditation and mindfulness classes
• Subsidized commuter benefits
• Generous paid time off, including:
  •    Vacation, sick time and holidays
  •    Volunteer time to participate within your community
  •    Discretionary year-end shutdown
• Location-specific perks and extras!

About Moderna

Since our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.  

By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities. 

We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S. 

If you want to make a difference and join a team that is changing the future of medicine, we invite you to visit modernatx.com/careers to learn more about our current opportunities. 

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. 

Equal Opportunities

Moderna is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry or citizenship, ethnicity, disability, military or protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or any other personal characteristic protected under applicable law.  Moderna is a place where everyone can grow. If you meet the Basic Qualifications for the role and you would be excited to contribute to our mission every day, please apply!

Moderna is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. We consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. 

Accommodations

We’re focused on attracting, retaining, developing, and advancing our employees. By cultivating a workplace that values diverse experiences, backgrounds, and ideas, we create an environment where every employee can contribute their best. 

Moderna is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to qualified job applicants with disabilities. Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should contact the Accommodations team at [email protected]. 

Export Control Notice

This position may involve access to technology or data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). As such, employment is contingent upon the applicant’s ability to access export-controlled information in accordance with U.S. law. Due to the nature of the work and regulatory requirements, only individuals who qualify as U.S. persons (citizens, permanent residents, asylees, or refugees) are eligible for this position. For this role Moderna is unable to sponsor non-U.S. persons to apply for an export control license.

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