Biological Scientist

This position supports a federal contract that requires that all employees and job applicants hold a valid Green Card or US Citizenship at the time of application.  Individuals selected will be subject to a background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to sensitive information and may be required to undergo Select Agent Registration.  

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

This position will perform non-research molecular testing to rapidly identify and characterize potential pathogenic bacterial and viral threat agents. Ensures incoming biological samples are processed and triaged, maintaining chain of custody. Performs and interprets various specialized tests and strains, as well as detects and identifies pathogenic microorganisms. Prepares written and oral reports, answers question, troubleshoots, and makes recommendations to the supervisor for inclusion in comprehensive reports on test findings. Maintains and operates equipment, including performing calibrations and adjustments, and operating equipment and instruments properly and in a safe manner. Participates in cross-training related to bioterrorism and other public health emergencies. Additionally, will be responsible for maintaining knowledge and skills related to position and program and to carry out all procedures in accordance to proper handling and storage of various biological materials. Must be available 24/7/365 to respond in case of emergency. Rotating weekends and some holidays are required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology or related course work in biological sciences.

• REQUIRES more than one year of recent post-graduate laboratory bench experience to include frequent and regular utilization of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, aseptic techniques and biological assays.

• Requires at least one year of experience serving as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader of a laboratory team/project.  

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university requires four years of laboratory bench experience to include frequent and regular utilization of real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, aseptic techniques and biological assays, including at least one year of experience as a Team Leader/Senior Scientist (total of four years’ experience).

• BSL-2 and BSL-3 experience is highly desirable.