Research Associate II

July 28, 2023
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Research Associate II

Job ID: req3595
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: AIDS & Cancer Virus 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 AIDS and Cancer Virus Program (ACVP) is an integrated, multidisciplinary program that pursues basic and applied studies aimed at improving our understanding of AIDS-associated viruses, including studies intended to facilitate the improved diagnosis, prevention and treatment of HIV infection and AIDS. The Program consists of several independent but highly interactive research Sections headed by Principal Investigators, whose work spans from fundamental molecular virology through in vitro studies, to in vivo studies in non-human primate (NHP) models, to international viral epidemiology. The ACVP also has multiple Research Support Core Groups (Cores) that provide critical and often unique technical support capabilities to ACVP laboratories and other laboratories within the NCI and NIH, and to extramural investigators.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

We are seeking a Research Associate II to join our dynamic, collaborative research team, which utilizes non-human primate models to study AIDS virus infection, pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention. The successful candidate will be able to work effectively in a close team environment, consistently follow detailed protocols and instructions, and keep careful records. Specific duties will include:
Independently handling and processing potentially infectious blood and tissue specimens from non-human primate research animals
Preparing/formulating of drug compounds
Operating laboratory equipment and instrumentation
Updating and maintaining detailed, accurate sample databases
Preparing packages containing materials/supplies or biological specimens for transportation via courier or commercial shipping vendor, including shipment of biohazardous materials
Independently learning and performing new laboratory techniques, using specialized laboratory instruments, performing delicate manual procedures as required, keeping accurate data/records on experiments, following and applying standard laboratory production protocols and procedures, assisting other laboratory personnel as needed, and communicating effectively and proactively, orally and in writing
Performing other related duties as assigned by a responsible authority

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:
Prior experience working with specimens containing infectious HIV/SIV or other infectious agents that are handled under Biosafety Level 2 biocontainment
Prior experience working with primary specimens from nonhuman primates and/or humans, including blood and tissue specimens
Knowledge of specialized laboratory techniques and procedures used in biomedical research, sterilization techniques, scientific methods, the metric system, and the operation of standard instruments used in a biomedical research laboratory
Proficiency with computer operations including Microsoft Outlook and Excel
Prior experience preparing and maintain detailed, accurate laboratory notes
Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college/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 the educational requirements, a minimum of five (5) years laboratory experience
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:
Prior exposure to and knowledge of basic principles of experiments conducted using research animals
Prior experience utilizing a laboratory information management system (LIMS)
JOB HAZARDS
This position is subject to working with or have potential exposure to animal material
This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations

Commitment to Diversity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.

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