2026 Co-Op, Bacteriology

The Role

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 genetic characterization of bacterial strains and execution of functional assays.

The Moderna Research Co-op program is a 6-month experiential training program for students currently working towards an undergraduate or advanced degree in 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 have opportunities for cross-team collaboration, networking, and mentorship. You will develop laboratory skills and learn about lab safety, experimental design, scientific strategy, and record keeping.

Our summer/fall co-op program is from July 13-December 11, 2026. All applicants must be available for the entire duration of the program.

Here’s What You’ll Do

• Assist in the execution and optimization of bacterial and immunological assays to support bacterial vaccine programs (e.g. antibody binding assays, antibody-dependent complement deposition (ADCD)
• Use genetic techniques to investigate expression of key antigens in various bacterial strains
• Build targeted mutant and/or reporter strains of bacteria to support bacterial assay development
• Independently execute experiments, faithfully documenting scientific work
• Deliver reproducible and impactful results that meet deadlines
• Analyze, interpret, and present data

Here’s What You’ll Need (Basic 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 experience with wet lab techniques, including but not limited to: Pipetting and serial dilution, bacterial growth & aseptic technique, molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, cloning)
• Ability to investigate literature for relevant knowledge and protocols
• Legal authorization to work in the US
• This position is site-based, requiring you to be at Moderna’s site full-time. This position is not eligible for remote work
• 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)

• Candidates with strong knowledge/experience in at least one of the following areas are strongly encouraged to apply: Bacterial mutagenesis, protein detection methods (e.g., ELISA, western blot), cell characterization methods (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy)
• Ability to troubleshoot experimental design and effectively investigate and communicate alternatives
• Enthusiasm to embody our core values.You will be curious in exploring new options for assay development and data presentation, bold in proposing creative experimental designs and ideas. You will work collaboratively with multifunctional teams and will be relentless in pursuing successful outcomes

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.

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.