Research Associate 1 - Pre-Clinical

About this Position

We are currently seeking candidates with experience in Manufactured Blood Product Development (e.g., using stem cells to generate large-scale blood cell production for transfusion; engineering animal-derived blood products; and developing synthetic blood substitutes to address limitations in human blood donation). Applicants should clearly indicate their relevant experience in their application materials.

The Pre-Clinical Research Associate supports laboratory research experiments and collects, enters, analyzes, and maintains scientific research study data under the supervision of the Principal Investigator or their designee. The experimental work may include cell culture, biological assays, qPCR, and microscopy. The position focuses entirely on cellular, chemical, and materials-based laboratory research. The Research Associate is expected to perform experimental procedures autonomously or with minimal supervision, contribute to the development of technical documentation, and assist with data analysis, interpretation, and scientific reporting.

About the 4DBio3 Program

The USU 4DBio³ is a Center for Biotechnology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences that develops and applies advanced biotechnologies to enhance the readiness, health, and well-being of America's Warfighters, veterans, and families. It champions a multidisciplinary approach that unites DoD and federal researchers, clinicians, academic collaborators, and industry partners across traditional and emerging scientific fields. The Center's research spans a broad portfolio including advanced imaging, on-demand blood products, organ-on-chip and micro physiological systems, wound care, traumatic brain injury diagnostics, and point-of-need medical devices. The Geneva Foundation serves as the nonprofit administrative partner for 4DBio³, managing the federal grants and cooperative agreements that support the Center's research, education and training, and scholarship activities.

This position is 100% onsite at the Uniformed Services University (USU) Center for Biotechnology (4DBio³) in Rockville, MD. Must be within a commutable distance to the Rockville Metro area. A thorough government background check will be administered.

Estimated Salary Range:
$50,000 - $63,000. Salaries are determined based on several factors including external market data, internal equity, and the candidate’s related knowledge, skills, and abilities for the position.

Essential Qualifications

• Careful attention to detail
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Good laboratory notebook upkeep practices
• Must be comfortable performing common laboratory calculations, such as creating and diluting solutions.
• Must have a working knowledge of cell culture practices. Experience with suspension cell cultures is preferred.
• Must have experience using reagent kits and following established laboratory protocols to perform experiments.
• Must be fluent in Microsoft Office Products and Google Calendar for event scheduling.
• Must have an honest understanding of one’s limitations and a willingness to ask questions. Knowledge gaps can be addressed, but overconfidence can be detrimental.

Desirable Qualifications

• Prior experience in molecular hematology such as handling blood samples, testing immune cell functions, and culturing Jurkat or HL60 cells.
• Prior experience developing or revising laboratory protocols.
• Prior experience performing antibody-based procedures such as immunostaining, flow cytometry, and Western blotting.
• Prior experience performing cryosectioning and specimen slide preparation.
• Reliable means of transportation and ability to work weekends

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or similar degree required
• 1-3 years of experience in laboratory research
• Expertise in aseptic techniques and the handling and maintenance of cell lines
• Experience with cell culture and cell line propagation as well as experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory
• Experience with hematopoietic stem cell and/or iPSC culture and differentiation
• Experience with flow cytometry
• Knowledge of cell culture scale up and bioreactors preferred
• Experience with cell media evaluation, development and optimization
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques
• Ability to multi-task
• Demonstrate competence in oral and written communication
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in fast-paced environments with strict deadlines
• Experience in a wet lab environment
• Must possess eligibility to work in the U.S. Visa sponsorship not provided.

Responsibilities

• Execute research studies (under the direction of the project's Principal Investigator or Research Scientist), manage study documentation, and prepare progress reports
• Interact and communicate effectively with Principal Investigator, other site personnel, and The Geneva Foundation personnel
• Procure supplies and equipment as authorized per research budget guidelines
• Assist with interim and annual reports
• Actively participate in regular team meetings
• Complete required and applicable research training needed to complete research
• Comply with all the rules and regulations as applicable to assigned duty station
• Adhere to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and infection control procedures
• Comply with all the rules and regulations as applicable to assigned duty station