Study Support Scientist

Laulima Government Solutions, LLC is looking for a qualified Study Support Scientist to support the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Fort Detrick, MD.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• After task-specific training, employee will work independently but under supervision on assigned projects.

• Applicant must be able to function independently.

• Duties could include assisting with Next Generation Sequencing, genomics/molecular biology assays, studies involving virology, tissue culture, sample processing, cell biology assays, immunology assays, data analysis, presenting data at lab meetings, preparation of manuscripts and other tasks as assigned.

• This position requires work with high consequence (BSL-3 and BSL-4) pathogens, so an ability to work in a biocontainment facility is necessary.

• Develop and revise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and methods for laboratory operations, as necessary.

• Comply with the NIH Division of Occupational Health and Safety requirement for satisfactory completion of the Biosurety and Select Agent programs.

• Comply with the physical security, protection of the Institute’s property, protection of information, cyber security, agent protection, control and accountability, safe disposal and waste handling, and personal security guidelines.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of 3 years lab experience including molecular biology, genetics/genomics, cell/tissue culture, cellular immunology, cellular biology, virology

• Familiarity with Illumina sequencing platforms

• Must have professional experience in the field of animal virology or molecular biology.

• Ability to obtain/maintain DoJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval.

• Must be willing to be immunized with licensed and FDA approved Investigational New Drugs (IND) recommended for persons at risk to occupational exposure of biological agents.

• Must be willing to participate in periodic drug screening.

• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain certification in the NIH Biosurety Program.

• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain CDC Select Agent Program approval.

• Willingness to work under BSL-3 - BSL-4 conditions.

• Ability to wear respiratory protection.

DESIRED SKILLS:

• Experience in molecular and cell biology assays such as DNA/RNA extraction, purification and manipulation, site-directed mutagenesis and cloning, cell transfection, ELISA, neutralization assays, antibody evaluation, etc.

• Experience with NGS sequencing platforms, generation of libraries for sequencing, single-cell transcriptomic/genomic analysis, bioinformatic analysis of NGS data

• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Familiarity with command line/Python/R for sequencing data analysis.

• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, oral and written communication, and organizational skills.

• Demonstrate ability to work independently, design experiments, and analyze data.

• Experience working in BSL-3 or BSL-4 laboratories is preferred.

DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT:

• Master’s level degree (PhD degree preferred) in molecular biology, biochemistry, virology, or immunology from an accredited college or university.

CITIZENSHIP/SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be a US citizen or permanent resident.

• Ability to obtain a Tier 3 clearance is required.

Laulima Government Solutions, LLC is a fast-growing government service provider. Employees enjoy competitive salaries; a 401K plan with company match; medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; tuition reimbursement; paid time off; and 10 paid holidays. Laulima Government Solutions, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.