Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts
Research associate jobs in Massachusetts are among the most active in the country, concentrated in life sciences, biomedical research, clinical trials, and academic science, with openings from entry-level lab positions through senior research roles. The heaviest hiring is in Boston, Cambridge, and Worcester, where employers like Pfizer, Broad Institute, and Massachusetts General Hospital maintain deep research operations. High-demand specialties include oncology research, genomics, and clinical data coordination. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 132+ Research Associate jobs
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Mirai Bio is a privately-held, Flagship-founded biotechnology company that is delivering genetic medicines from promise to performance. Mirai was built to solve one of the field's central challenges: achieving precise, scalable delivery of diverse nucleic acid payloads to specific cells and tissues, particularly beyond the liver. By combining a large and growing proprietary in vivo biodistribution dataset, machine learning-guided lipid nanoparticle optimization, modular targeted particle design, and integrated translation and manufacturing capabilities, Mirai helps partners accelerate development, reduce technical risk, and pursue high-value programs making delivery a strategic advantage. We are seeking collaborative, relentless problem solvers that share our passion for defining the future of genetic medicines together.
THE ROLE
Mirai Bio is seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, LNP Production to support the development and advancement of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. In this role, you will design, produce, characterize, and optimize LNP formulations to support preclinical research and the development of genetic medicines.
The successful candidate will contribute to the continuous improvement of Mirai Bio's delivery platform and work across multiple programs and partners to advance novel delivery vehicles for a range of nucleic acid cargos. This is a hands-on role that requires strong technical expertise in LNP formulation and production, sound scientific judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, formulate, produce, and characterize LNPs to support preclinical research for internal platform and external partnerships.
- Execute LNP production across a range of process scales, from small-scale formulation and process optimization through larger-scale production.
- Operate and develop processes using relevant LNP manufacturing and process-development equipment, including mixers, pumping systems, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and related technologies.
- Troubleshoot formulation and process challenges and contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of LNP production processes.
- Collaborate closely with scientists and cross-functional teams to design experiments, interpret results, and advance program objectives.
- Support the development and implementation of robust, reproducible LNP production and characterization workflows.
- Maintain accurate and thorough documentation of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in electronic laboratory notebooks.
- Analyze and communicate experimental results and present findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams.
- Contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, continuous learning, and operational excellence.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- BS or MS in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, or a related scientific discipline
- RA II: BS + 2-4 years or MS + 0-2 years of relevant industry or research experience
- SRA: BS + 5 years or MS + 3 years of relevant industry or research experience
- Hands-on experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation and production, particularly for nucleic acid cargos such as mRNA, siRNA, or other genetic medicines.
- Experience with a range of LNP processing techniques and equipment across multiple scales, including mixers, pumping systems, TFF, and related unit operations.
- Familiarity with common analytical techniques used to characterize LNPs, including measurements of particle size, polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency, and other relevant physicochemical attributes.
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, interpret data, and drive projects forward.
- Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
- Collaborative and adaptable team player who is equally comfortable working independently and partnering across functions.
- Ability to prioritize effectively and consistently deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
ABOUT FLAGSHIP PIONEERING:
Flagship Pioneering invents and builds platform companies, each with the potential for multiple products that transform human health, sustainability and beyond. Since its launch in 2000, Flagship has originated more than 100 companies. Many of these companies have addressed humanity's most urgent challenges: vaccinating billions of people against COVID-19, curing intractable diseases, improving human health, preempting illness, and feeding the world by improving the resiliency and sustainability of agriculture.
Flagship has been recognized twice on FORTUNE's "Change the World" list, an annual ranking of companies that have made a positive social and environmental impact through activities that are part of their core business strategies and has been twice named to Fast Company's annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies. Learn more about Flagship at www.flagshippioneering.com.
At Flagship, we accept impossible missions to enable bigger leaps. Our core values guide us through uncertainty and toward lasting impact.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We recognize that great candidates often bring unique strengths without fulfilling every qualification. If you have some of the experience listed above but not all, please apply anyway. We are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and look forward to learning more about your background and interest in Flagship.
Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: Flagship Pioneering and its affiliated Flagship Lab companies (collectively, "FSP") do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to FSP or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Flagship Pioneering's internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of FSP, and FSP will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.
#LI-TL1
Privacy Notice for Applicants: When you apply for a role at Flagship Pioneering or one of its portfolio companies, we collect and use personal information you provide (such as your name, contact details, work history, and application materials) to evaluate your application, communicate with you, and comply with legal obligations. Your application data is processed through Greenhouse, our applicant tracking system, and may also be reviewed using AI-assisted screening tools. We do not sell your personal information. California residents have rights under the CCPA/CPRA including to know, delete, and opt out of the sharing of their personal information. If you are located in the EU or UK, we process your data under GDPR and you have rights to access, rectify, and erase your data. To exercise your rights or for questions, contact privacy@flagshippioneering.com.
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Mirai Bio is a privately-held, Flagship-founded biotechnology company that is delivering genetic medicines from promise to performance. Mirai was built to solve one of the field's central challenges: achieving precise, scalable delivery of diverse nucleic acid payloads to specific cells and tissues, particularly beyond the liver. By combining a large and growing proprietary in vivo biodistribution dataset, machine learning-guided lipid nanoparticle optimization, modular targeted particle design, and integrated translation and manufacturing capabilities, Mirai helps partners accelerate development, reduce technical risk, and pursue high-value programs making delivery a strategic advantage. We are seeking collaborative, relentless problem solvers that share our passion for defining the future of genetic medicines together.
THE ROLE
Mirai Bio is seeking a highly motivated and talented Research Associate II/Senior Research Associate, LNP Production to support the development and advancement of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulations for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics. In this role, you will design, produce, characterize, and optimize LNP formulations to support preclinical research and the development of genetic medicines.
The successful candidate will contribute to the continuous improvement of Mirai Bio's delivery platform and work across multiple programs and partners to advance novel delivery vehicles for a range of nucleic acid cargos. This is a hands-on role that requires strong technical expertise in LNP formulation and production, sound scientific judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative, fast-paced environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design, formulate, produce, and characterize LNPs to support preclinical research for internal platform and external partnerships.
- Execute LNP production across a range of process scales, from small-scale formulation and process optimization through larger-scale production.
- Operate and develop processes using relevant LNP manufacturing and process-development equipment, including mixers, pumping systems, tangential flow filtration (TFF), and related technologies.
- Troubleshoot formulation and process challenges and contribute to the optimization and continuous improvement of LNP production processes.
- Collaborate closely with scientists and cross-functional teams to design experiments, interpret results, and advance program objectives.
- Support the development and implementation of robust, reproducible LNP production and characterization workflows.
- Maintain accurate and thorough documentation of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in electronic laboratory notebooks.
- Analyze and communicate experimental results and present findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams.
- Contribute to a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, continuous learning, and operational excellence.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- BS or MS in chemical engineering, biochemical engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, or a related scientific discipline
- RA II: BS + 2-4 years or MS + 0-2 years of relevant industry or research experience
- SRA: BS + 5 years or MS + 3 years of relevant industry or research experience
- Hands-on experience with lipid nanoparticle formulation and production, particularly for nucleic acid cargos such as mRNA, siRNA, or other genetic medicines.
- Experience with a range of LNP processing techniques and equipment across multiple scales, including mixers, pumping systems, TFF, and related unit operations.
- Familiarity with common analytical techniques used to characterize LNPs, including measurements of particle size, polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency, and other relevant physicochemical attributes.
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute experiments, troubleshoot technical challenges, interpret data, and drive projects forward.
- Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills
- Collaborative and adaptable team player who is equally comfortable working independently and partnering across functions.
- Ability to prioritize effectively and consistently deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
ABOUT FLAGSHIP PIONEERING:
Flagship Pioneering invents and builds platform companies, each with the potential for multiple products that transform human health, sustainability and beyond. Since its launch in 2000, Flagship has originated more than 100 companies. Many of these companies have addressed humanity's most urgent challenges: vaccinating billions of people against COVID-19, curing intractable diseases, improving human health, preempting illness, and feeding the world by improving the resiliency and sustainability of agriculture.
Flagship has been recognized twice on FORTUNE's "Change the World" list, an annual ranking of companies that have made a positive social and environmental impact through activities that are part of their core business strategies and has been twice named to Fast Company's annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies. Learn more about Flagship at www.flagshippioneering.com.
At Flagship, we accept impossible missions to enable bigger leaps. Our core values guide us through uncertainty and toward lasting impact.
We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
We recognize that great candidates often bring unique strengths without fulfilling every qualification. If you have some of the experience listed above but not all, please apply anyway. We are dedicated to building diverse and inclusive teams and look forward to learning more about your background and interest in Flagship.
Recruitment & Staffing Agencies: Flagship Pioneering and its affiliated Flagship Lab companies (collectively, "FSP") do not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than candidates. The submission of unsolicited resumes by recruitment or staffing agencies to FSP or its employees is strictly prohibited unless contacted directly by Flagship Pioneering's internal Talent Acquisition team. Any resume submitted by an agency in the absence of a signed agreement will automatically become the property of FSP, and FSP will not owe any referral or other fees with respect thereto.
#LI-TL1
Privacy Notice for Applicants: When you apply for a role at Flagship Pioneering or one of its portfolio companies, we collect and use personal information you provide (such as your name, contact details, work history, and application materials) to evaluate your application, communicate with you, and comply with legal obligations. Your application data is processed through Greenhouse, our applicant tracking system, and may also be reviewed using AI-assisted screening tools. We do not sell your personal information. California residents have rights under the CCPA/CPRA including to know, delete, and opt out of the sharing of their personal information. If you are located in the EU or UK, we process your data under GDPR and you have rights to access, rectify, and erase your data. To exercise your rights or for questions, contact privacy@flagshippioneering.com.
See All 132+ Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts
Find roles in Massachusetts that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Research Associate JobsResearch Associate Jobs by City in Massachusetts
Where Massachusetts roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Research Associate Job Market in Massachusetts
A snapshot from current Massachusetts openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Flagship Pioneering10
- Umass Lowell7
- Moderna6
- University of Massachusetts6
- IQVIA4
Top Industries Hiring
- Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals11
- Science & Research6
- Education4
- Healthcare & Medical Services2
- Staffing & Recruiting1
What Massachusetts Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in research associate jobs across Massachusetts.
- Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or a closely related life sciences field
- Hands-on laboratory experience with standard techniques such as PCR, cell culture, or ELISA
- Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards
- Experience with data collection, analysis, and scientific documentation in a research setting
- Proficiency with research software such as GraphPad Prism, R, or laboratory information management systems
- Strong written communication skills for preparing protocols, reports, and scientific summaries
Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a research associate in Massachusetts?
Most research associate roles in Massachusetts require at least a bachelor's degree in a life science, chemistry, or related field, with many employers preferring candidates who also have direct lab or research experience. Massachusetts does not require a state-issued license for most research associate positions, but roles in clinical research may require Good Clinical Practice certification. Candidates targeting academic medical centers or biotech firms in the Boston and Cambridge corridor often benefit from thesis research, co-op experience, or internships completed through Massachusetts universities.
Which companies hire research associates in Massachusetts?
Employers hiring research associates in Massachusetts right now include Flagship Pioneering, Umass Lowell, and Moderna, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Massachusetts's dense concentration of biotech, pharmaceutical, and academic medical institutions means research associate hiring remains consistent across the Boston-Cambridge biotech cluster and hospital-affiliated research programs statewide.
Which Massachusetts cities have the most research associate jobs?
Boston, Cambridge, and Worcester have the most research associate openings in Massachusetts. Boston and Cambridge account for the largest share, driven by the concentration of world-class academic medical centers, biotech campuses, and pharmaceutical headquarters in those cities, while Worcester draws significant hiring through its medical school ecosystem and UMass Memorial Health research programs.
Are there remote research associate jobs in Massachusetts?
Yes, but they're rare. About 33% of research associate openings tied to Massachusetts are remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on, laboratory-based nature of most positions in this field. The sub-specialties most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements are clinical data coordination, regulatory affairs support, and scientific writing roles that do not require physical lab access.
How can I get hired as a research associate in Massachusetts with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for research assistant or junior research associate positions at Massachusetts academic medical centers and biotech companies, where new-grad candidates are regularly considered. Institutions like Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Vertex Pharmaceuticals run structured programs and frequently post entry-level research roles suited to recent graduates. Completing a co-op through Northeastern University or a thesis project through a University of Massachusetts campus provides the hands-on credential that makes candidates competitive without prior industry employment.
Where can I find and apply to research associate jobs in Massachusetts?
You can find and apply to research associate jobs in Massachusetts on Migrate Mate, which lists current Massachusetts openings updated regularly. Search the listings, find roles that match your background and location, and apply directly to the employers posting them.
See All 132+ Research Associate Jobs in Massachusetts
Find roles in Massachusetts that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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