Research Associate II, CGR

October 9, 2022
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Research Associate II, CGR

Job ID: req2572
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Clinical Research Program
Facility: Rockville: 9615 MedCtrDr
Location: 9615 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850 USA

The Frederick National Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first-in-human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases.

Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way.

This position description does not represent a specific job but represents a sourcing announcement for current and future open positions. Our positions span a wide range of skills, so candidates who express an interest may be considered for upcoming positions at Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) investigates the contribution of germline and somatic genetic variation to cancer susceptibility and outcomes in support of the NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), the world's most comprehensive cancer epidemiology research group. CGR is located at the NCI-Shady Grove campus in Gaithersburg, MD and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. We care deeply about discovering the genetic and environmental determinants of cancer, and new approaches to cancer prevention, through our contributions to the molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic research of the 70+ investigators in DCEG. Working in concert with epidemiologists, biostatisticians and basic research scientists in DCEG's intramural research program, CGR provides the capacity to conduct genome-wide discovery studies and targeted regional approaches to identify the heritable determinants of various forms of cancer. This includes the design and analysis of high throughput studies using various types of "-omics" technologies such as array- and sequence-based genome-wide association studies, studies of tumor characteristics using integrated genomic data analysis, and molecular epidemiologic studies based on novel assays focused on the metabolome and microbiome.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The CGR laboratory is a fast-paced, high throughput sample extraction, staging, genotyping, and sequencing facility dedicated to the support of genetic and epidemiologic studies for investigators at the National Cancer Institute. We are recruiting for a Research Associate II position within the CGR Laboratory. The successful candidate will have responsibility for the day-to-day execution of high complexity laboratory processes and applications. Key responsibilities include:
  • Implement and help guide a rapidly expanding range of applications, including new extraction methods, custom sequencing approaches, utilization of RNA and FFPE derived samples for array and sequencing applications, among others
  • Utilize molecular biology expertise to help execute new protocols, as well as troubleshoot and identification of issues with existing protocols, with an eye towards throughput, automation feasibility, and process consistency
  • Ensure proper documentation of all laboratory processes
  • Participate in all facets of the work done by the team
  • Works seamlessly and collaboratively with LIMS, QA, project management, laboratory, and bioinformatics resources at CGR in order to fully support and integrate new or modified applications into the organization

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:
  • Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
  • In addition to education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years related biomedical experience
  • Excellent laboratory skills and in-depth knowledge of molecular biology
  • With guidance from senior laboratory personnel, ability to design sound experiments, collate results into presentations, and analyze data for next steps
  • Careful attention to detail
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Ability to troubleshoot with supervision
  • Ability to train and mentor junior staff
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Working knowledge of Windows-based computer operating systems and Microsoft office suite
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:
  • Assay and methods development expertise in genomics
  • Expertise with a wide range of materials used in genomics, including DNA, RNA, and FFPE materials
  • Experience with prioritization in a high-pressure environment
  • Familiarity with liquid handling robotics (use, maintenance, method development)

JOB HAZARDS
  • This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations
  • This position may require continuous or intermittent exposure to and exertion in environmental conditions such as working outdoors, temperature extremes, humidity extremes. etc. as part of the job


Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) | Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran (M/F/D/V) | Drug Free Workplace (DFW)

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