Research Associate I/ II - Molecular Characterization Lab (MoCha)

Job ID: req2650
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Clinical Research Program
Facility: Frederick: Ft Detrick
Location: PO Box B, Frederick, MD 21702 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.

***A flexible schedule may be needed to process clinical samples in the event of shipment delays***

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) is part of Leidos Biomedical Research's Clinical Research Directorate (CRD) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. The MoCha Laboratory is responsible for providing high-level research in support of the NCI-Cancer Diagnostics Program (CDP) within the Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (DCTD). MoCha is charged with the development and application of genomic assays for use in medical research and diagnostics for DCTD-sponsored national extramural clinical trials.

The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) focuses on development and application of novel genomic assays for clinical applications.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Associate I/Research Associate II will perform nucleic acid extractions and next generation sequencing (NGS) ctDNA assays both manually and using automated platforms to facilitate cutting edge genomic research in support of DCTD projects, e.g., MDNET clinical trials, NCI-MATCH correlative studies, and genomic characterization of patient samples enrolled in ETCTN/NCLN clinical trials.

Responsibilities:

• Performs nucleic acid extractions, clinical NGS assays, genomics research and/or assay development in collaboration with others for projects
• Performs next generation sequencing assays following detailed SOPs, in both research and regulated settings
• Makes detailed observations, analyzes data and interprets results
• Exercises independent judgment in developing and/or modifying methods and techniques for solving
  scientific problems
• Maintains essential laboratory supplies and monitors equipment for optimum performance
• Develops new assays and applies the methods/assays utilizing sound scientific judgement
• Writes SOPs and performs formal reporting of research data, including presentations and/or scientific
  publications
• Will be key staff member for above-mentioned activities
• Maintains high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature and presentations
• May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals
• May be responsible for identifying patentable inventions
• This position will be located in Frederick, Maryland

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/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years of experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In addition to education requirement, a minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience for Research Associate I or five (5) years of relevant experience for Research Associate II
• Strong technical skills in molecular assays and/or nucleic acid extraction and understanding of QC metrics of nucleic acids
• Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests, develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data
• Ability to track information in a large cohort of samples and monitor progress of multiple projects
• Adequate computer skills to document, organize, and present experimental data
• Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience working in a CLIA, CAP, GLP, or ISO accredited laboratory
• Experience in NGS genomic profiling assays
• Experience in genomic assay development and workflow automation
• Familiarity with clinical oncology studies and other protocol-driven clinical research

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations

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

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