Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Scientist for the Collaborative Health Research Initiative Program (CHIRP) at the Uniformed Services University (USU) in Bethesda, Maryland. HIF provides scientific, technical and programmatic support services to the CHIRP.

Responsibilities:

• Advises and assists in the experimental design of sequencing-based profiling projects for program investigators. Coordinates with investigators for project management, including timelines and sample receipt.
• Establishes, updates, and maintains standard operating procedures for sequencing workflows in the core. Trains and supervises technical staff in sequencing workflows.
• Oversees sample, library and sequencing quality control processes, monitors and troubleshoots process and sequencing platform failures.
• Conducts and analyzes sequencing data quality control and summarizes quality control results to investigators and Informatics Core.
• Purchases, inventories, and maintains integrity of sequencing core consumables. Evaluates new sequencing kits for laboratory core use.
• Maintains core laboratory LIMS and electronic notebook and reviews accurate data entries.
• Evaluates and deploys novel next-generation sequencing based methodologies and equipment. Participates in technology improvement projects to support research objectives. Trains personnel for novel sequencing protocols.
• Generates core progress reports and presents project progress in program meetings.
• Assists with the report of experimental results for publication in technical and peer-reviewed journals. Contributes and edits data, text and figures in program publications.
• Maintains a safe work environment including appropriate training of other personnel and performing routine laboratory maintenance.
• Provides collaborative assistance to USU personnel that require the incumbent's expertise.
• Completes other projects as needed.
• May interview new laboratory core personnel.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of complex molecular biology laboratory procedures and ability to troubleshoot complex technical procedures; experience with nucleic acid isolation, handling and quality control, 2+ years’ experience with next-generation sequencing methodologies, experience with running next-generation sequencing platforms (preferably Illumina), ability to work independently and supervise others; demonstrated ability to work effectively as part of a team in a deadline-driven environment; good communication and analytical skills

Minimum Education/Training Requirements: PhD in related scientific discipline

Minimum Experience: 0 to 2 years related research experience

Physical Capabilities: Work involves long periods of standing and handling of numerous chemicals

Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls: Supervises technical support staff

Work Environment: Laboratory environment; may require working evenings and weekends; may involve working with biohazardous materials.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, addresses, education, and credentials, a criminal background check, drug screening, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check.

HJF is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Director of Human Resources.