Support Scientist

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is looking for a qualified Support Scientist at Fort Detrick, Maryland.

DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• After task-specific training, employee will work independently but under supervision on assigned projects.

• Applicant must be able to function independently.

• Duties include next-generation sequencing, genomics/molecular biology assays, data analysis, studies involving virology, tissue culture, sample processing, cell biology and immunology assays, presenting data at lab meetings, preparation of manuscripts and other tasks as assigned.

• This position requires work with high consequence (BSL-3 and BSL-4) pathogens, thus, ability to work in a biocontainment facility is necessary.

• Develop and revise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and methods for laboratory operations, as necessary.

• Comply with the NIH Division of Occupational Health and Safety requirement for satisfactory completion of the Biosurety and Select Agent programs.

• Comply with the physical security, protection of the Institute's property, protection of information, cyber security, agent protection, control and accountability, safe disposal and waste handling, and personal security guidelines.

• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

REQUIRED DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

Master's level degree (PhD degree preferred) in molecular biology, biochemistry, virology, or immunology from an accredited college or university.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of three (3) years lab experience including molecular biology, genetics/genomics, cell/tissue culture, cellular immunology, cellular biology, virology

• Familiarity with Illumina sequencing platforms

• Experience with molecular biology assays such as DNA/RNA extraction, purification and manipulation.

• Experience with next-generation sequencing platforms, generation of libraries for sequencing, and data analysis.

• Ability to obtain/maintain DoJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval.

• Must be willing to be immunized with licensed and FDA approved Investigational New Drugs (IND) recommended for persons at risk to occupational exposure of biological agents.

• Must be willing to participate in periodic drug screening.

• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain certification in the NIH Biosurety Program.

• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain CDC Select Agent Program approval.

• Willingness to work under BSL-3 and BSL-4 conditions.

• Ability to wear respiratory protection.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bioinformatic analysis of NGS data. Familiarity with command line/Python/R for sequencing data analysis.

• Experience with variant analysis and single-cell transcriptomic assays and data analysis

• Experience in molecular and cell biology assays such as site-directed mutagenesis and cloning, cell transfection, ELISA, neutralization assays, antibody evaluation, etc.

• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, oral and written communication, and organizational skills.

• Demonstrate ability to work independently, design experiments, and analyze data.

• Experience working in BSL-3 or BSL-4 laboratories is preferred.

REQUIRE CITIZENSHIP AND CLEARANCE:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.

• Ability to obtain a Tier 3 clearance is required.

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is a fast-growing government service provider. Employees enjoy competitive salaries. Eligible employees enjoy a 401K plan with company match; medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; tuition reimbursement; paid time off; and 11 paid holidays.

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and veterans. We are proud to state that we do not illegally discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of any protected categories. If you are a person with a disability and you need an accommodation during the application process, please click here to request accommodation. We E-Verify all employees.

"EOE, including Disability/Vets" OR "Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Veterans"

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is comprised of industry-recognized government service firms designated as Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO)-owned and 8(a) certified businesses. The Family of Companies (FOCs) includes Ke`aki Technologies, Laulima Government Solutions, Kpono Government Services, and Kapili Services, Po`okela Solutions, Kkaha Solutions, LLC, and Pololei Solutions, LLC. Alaka`ina Foundation activities principally benefit the youth of Hawaii through charitable efforts which includes providing innovative educational programs that combine leadership, science & technology, and environmental stewardship.

For additional information, please visit www.alakainafoundation.com

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