Research Associate II - Structural Biology

October 9, 2022
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Research Associate II - Structural Biology

Job ID: req2634
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Cancer Research Technology Program
Facility: Frederick: ATRF
Location: 8560 Progress Dr, Frederick, MD 21701 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.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community. A major focus of the CRTP is the NCI RAS Initiative with the goal to discover new therapeutic interventions against RAS-driven cancers. In addition, the CRTP hosts the Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory (NCL) which performs and standardizes preclinical efficacy and toxicity testing of nanoparticles intended for cancer therapeutics and diagnostics, and the Antibody Characterization Lab (ACL) which characterizes monoclonal antibodies or other renewable affinity binding reagents for use in cancer related research. CRTP scientists also work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Associate II will join the Structural Biology Group within the NCI RAS Initiative. We provide biophysical and high resolution structural data to advance basic knowledge of RAS biology, as well as evaluate and validate drug lead compounds binding to RAS and related proteins.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Prepare protein samples using fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) and analyze them with SDS-PAGE
  • Set up protein crystallization trials using automated liquid handling tools
  • Perform biophysical assays such as isothermal calorimetry (ITC) and differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF)
  • Help maintain lab equipment and replenish reagents and materials as necessary to conduct experiments
  • Maintain detailed records of work performed
  • Provide timely updates of project progress to supervisor and other staff in both informal and formal meetings/reports
  • Work may involve the use of potentially hazardous chemical, biological, or radiological materials or may be located in areas where such materials are used
  • Work will require the use of personal protective equipment and adherence to strict safety protocols

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) in a related field. (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
  • In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of five (5) years related biomedical experience
  • Knowledge in protein structures and biophysical techniques
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

  • Possession of a Master's degree is preferred
  • Experience with X-ray crystallography, ITC, DSF, mass spectrometry or other biophysical techniques
  • Experience with protein complexes and purification with FPLC system such as AKTA
  • Experience with protein modification with covalent small molecule inhibitors
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to communicate and interact well with colleagues at all levels
  • Highly organized with excellent analytical, documentation and multi-tasking skills


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

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