Join the HJF Team!

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and helps to carry out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

This position will be in support of the Department of Biochemistry. The opening is for a research assistant position in the Young-Baird laboratory at Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD. Current research projects in the lab are broadly focused on gene expression regulation in the context of cellular stress and the role of protein synthesis dysregulation in human disease. The group utilizes multiple model systems including yeast, induced pluripotent stem cells, neurons, and various immortalized mammalian cell lines to address the fundamental mechanisms by which gene expression is regulated. By combining next generation sequencing with molecular, biochemical, and structure-function studies, the laboratory aims to elucidate how mutations in the mRNA translational machinery and dysregulation of protein synthesis contribute to disease, while identifying and exploring new avenues for therapeutic development. Candidates with mammalian cell culture experience and a background in biology, chemistry, or a related STEM field are encouraged to apply.

Please review these sample publications:

Young-Baird et al., Suppression of MEHMO Syndrome Mutation in eIF2 by Small Molecule ISRIB, Molecular Cell, 2020.

Young and Wek, Upstream Open Reading Frames Differentially Regulate Gene-Specific Translation in the Integrated Stress Response, Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2016.

Performs research projects, including the collection and organization of data. Follows instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Performs data entry in accurate, timely, and efficient manner. Maintains clear and accurate data collection records and inventories in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Creates, collects, disseminates, and maintains appropriate study data.
• Assists in the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and protocols. Creates and communicates detailed observations on experiments.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check

All HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

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, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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