Development Associate III

The Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) investigates the contribution of germline and somatic genetic variation to cancer susceptibility and outcomes in support of the National Cancer Institute (NCI)'s Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG). Working in concert with epidemiologists, biostatisticians and basic research scientists in DCEG's intramural research program, CGR provides the capacity to conduct genome-wide discovery studies and targeted regional approaches to identify the heritable determinants of various forms of cancer. This includes the design and analysis of high throughput studies using various types of “-omics” technologies such as array- and sequence-based genome-wide association studies, studies of tumor characteristics using integrated genomic data analysis, and molecular epidemiologic studies based on novel metabolomic and microbiomic assays.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

Development Associate III

The Cancer Genomics Research (CGR) Laboratory is a fast-paced, high throughput facility dedicated to the support of genetic and epidemiologic studies for investigators at the National Cancer Institute.

The Development Associate III will be responsible for:

• Independently performing HPV-related research under the review of the manager and Director of Research and Development of the Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory
• Coordination with numerous technical and administrative resources required for development of new assays related to the Research group's goals and projects
• Operating independently in a rapidly changing environment of next-generation sequencing and genotyping technologies and handling the recognition, research, resolution and follow up for routine and complex problems
• Identification, testing, optimization and implementation of new technologies and applications that support DCEG and CGR production laboratory and research efforts
• Independent experimental design and execution, analysis and interpretation of results, and mapping out follow up work
• Communication of results and interpretation to a diverse audience, including senior CGR scientists, DCEG collaborators, and internal stakeholders including bioinformatics, LIMS and project management staff
• Troubleshooting issues relating to both existing and new laboratory techniques
• Providing feedback and potential solutions to scientists and management

This position is part of the Research and Functional group at the Cancer Genomics Research (CGR) Laboratory in Gaithersburg, MD

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college/university in a field related to biomedical research field (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In addition to the education requirements, a minimum of five (5) years related biomedical experience, including 3+ years of experience supervising or leading teams or projects
• Experience with nucleic acid extraction, DNA/RNA handling, quantitation and quality assessment techniques
• Hands-on molecular biology experience (Library preps for NGS, sample extractions, assay development)
• Experience in working with RNA is required, along with various quantitative and qualitative assessments of nucleic acids.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Methods development experience
• Tecan and Perkin Elmer Robotic operation and programming experience
• Hands-on experience with NGS platforms, especially illumina and Ion Torrent

Expected Competencies:

• Careful attention to detail. Must be analytical, flexible, innovative, and self-motivated.
• Ability to organize and execute multiple projects in parallel
• Ability to carry out a wide range of laboratory techniques and analyses, and troubleshoot with minimal supervision
• Ability to train and mentor staff
• Excellent written and oral communication-ability to communicate clearly and effectively with staff and other groups within CGR and DCEG, and able to interpret data and write scientific reports as well as other written communications.
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office products, general computer proficiency)

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