Research Associate II, Pre-Clin

Job ID: req2840
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Laboratory Animal Science 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.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Laboratory Animal Sciences Program (LASP) provides exceptional quality animal care and technical support services for animal research performed at the National Cancer Institute at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. The Center for Advanced Preclinical Research (CAPR) within LASP develops preclinical model systems for evaluation of cancer therapeutics and biomarker discovery, facilitating the translation of research findings to the clinic. Mouse models are developed or retooled for application to studies assessing small molecule drugs, immunotherapy, and other cutting-edge cancer treatments. The successful candidate will be engaged in variety of in vivo experiments aimed at the evaluation of anticancer therapeutics in genetically engineered mouse models as well as tumor implant models, as a member of CAPR's Preclinical Evaluation team. The candidate will also assist in the collection, preparation, analysis and storage of tumor tissue samples. He/she will maintain strong working relationships with other team members as well as with CAPR collaborators.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Administration of drugs by IP, IV, SC, or oral gavage routes.
• Performing cell injections by multiple routes.
• Performing survival surgeries on mice.
• Monitoring animal health status.
• Performing necropsies on experimental animals.
• Collection, preparation, and storage of tissue samples.
• Execute experiments independently with guidance from program scientists.
• General laboratory upkeep.
• Computer/data management, including maintenance of complex Excel spreadsheets and databases.
• Perform assignments independently and following all applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Work involves the use of potentially hazardous material or may be located in areas where such materials are used.
• Work may require the use of personal protective equipment and requires adherence to strict safety protocols.
• Schedule may include occasional weekend and holiday hours.
  

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 in a field related to biomedical research or four (4) years equivalent experience in the appropriate field in lieu of degree. Foreign educated candidates who have completed part or all of their education outside of the United States must have their foreign education evaluated by a company-approved accrediting organization to assure that it has met the equivalency of the qualifications of degree work in the United States.
• In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of five (5) years job-related biomedical experience.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience in conducting experiments using mouse models, preferably preclinical drug evaluation in tumor models.
• Ability to perform technical procedures on laboratory animals (rodents) and to provide specific health observations.
• Ability to maintain detailed records in computer-based applications/databases.
• Good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks.
• Knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures for animal facilities, and a basic understanding of maintaining laboratory animals is essential.
• Ability to communicate with project lead researchers in a demanding scientific environment.
• Note that some work will be performed in facilities that require respiratory protection.
• Cancer biology experience preferred but not essential.
• Experience with molecular biology procedures and cell cultures preferred but not essential.

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal
  material(s).
• 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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