Research Associate I/II - NGS

Research Associate I/II - NGS

Job ID: req3413
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Clinical Research 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 Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) is part of Leidos Biomedical Research’s Clinical Research Directorate (CRD) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. Our laboratory consists of a dynamic team of over 40 scientific, informatics and support staff.  For over 10 years, MoCha has worked closely with the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (DCTD) in support of DCTD-sponsored clinical trials and pre-clinical studies. We are dedicated to implementing cutting-edge genomic technologies to identify new predictive biomarkers and to make translational discoveries that will improve the lives of patients with cancer. The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) focuses on development and application of novel genomic assays for clinical applications

***This position can be hired at either the Research Associate I or II level.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Research Associate I/II will perform nucleic acid extractions, single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, ctDNA and other next generation sequencing (NGS) assays both manually and using automated platforms to facilitate cutting edge genomic research in support of DCTD projects, e.g., MDNET clinical trials, NCI-MATCH correlative studies, and genomic characterization of patient samples enrolled in ETCTN/NCLN clinical trials.

• Performs nucleic acid extractions, single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, ctDNA and other NGS assays
  
• Performs next generation sequencing assays following detailed SOPs, in both research and regulated settings
  
• Makes detailed observations, follows thorough and timely recordkeeping processes, analyzes data and interprets results
  
• Exercises independent judgment in developing and/or modifying methods and techniques for solving scientific problems
  
• Maintains essential laboratory supplies and monitors equipment for optimum performance
• Investigates, creates and develops new methods and technologies for project advancement utilizing sound scientific judgement
  
• Writes SOPs and performs formal reporting of research data, including presentations and/or scientific publications
  
• Will be key staff member for above-mentioned activities
  
• Maintains high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature and presentations
  
• May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals
  
• May be responsible for identifying patentable inventions
• This position will be located in Frederick, Maryland
  

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 according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years of experience in lieu of degree
• Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
  • Research Associate I - In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience
    
  • Research Associate II- In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience
• Ability to track information in a large cohort of samples and monitor progress of multiple projects
• Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests, develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data
• Strong technical skills in molecular assays and/or nucleic acid extraction and understanding of QC metrics of nucleic acids
• Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests, develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data
• Strong technical skills in molecular assays and/or nucleic acid extraction and understanding of QC metrics of nucleic acids
• Adequate computer skills to document, organize, and present experimental data
  
• Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
  
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience working in a CLIA, CAP, GLP, or ISO accredited laboratory
  
• Experience in NGS genomic profiling assays
  
• Experience in genomic assay development and workflow automation
  
• Familiarity with clinical oncology studies and other protocol-driven clinical research
  

EXPECTED COMPETENCIES

• Proficient with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access)
  
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral)
• Strong technical skills in molecular biological and genomic assays

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations

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

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