Automation and Assay Research Scientist

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) has a Potential need for an Automation and Assay Research Scientist to support our government customer located in Frederick, MD at Fort Detrick.

DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist in the development, execution, and evaluation of high-throughput in vitro screening projects for the antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-toxin therapeutic areas and assist in the development of novel assays/methods for various programs. Will assist in screening of molecular compound libraries for therapeutic efficacy to support mcm development.
• Be proficient in using automated liquid handling systems such as beckman biomek, perkin elmer janus, viaflo, viafill, multi-drop combi and HP dispensers and be familiar with handling of therapeutic small molecules and compound management. Perform compound treatment to evaluate therapeutic small molecules for enzymatic/ antibacterial/ antiviral/antitoxin activity. In vitro assays include enzymatic assays, cell-based phenotypic and reporter assays, minimum inhibitory concentration (mic) and plaque assays.
• Be required to write new work-flows associated with the automation instruments in support of any new high-throughput screening assay and may include combination studies and similar. The assist in data analysis using Spotfire and Genedata.
• Perform basic molecular biology techniques to support creation of novel cell or enzymatic based assays for evaluation of MCM and have experience in setting up in vitro enzymatic assays such as kinases, proteases and similar.
• Assist in the preparation of technical reports, standard operating procedures, and manuscripts relating to their research efforts. May be expected to present research findings at a scientific conference. Present results in written and oral format publicly and internally as requested.
• Be responsible for assessing and maintaining all the robotic instruments and associated laboratory supplies. Will assess supplies and ensure supply orders are coordinated with division resources. Will ensure that all assigned laboratory space is orderly and compliant with all applicable regulatory guidance.
• Prepare and provide a therapeutic screening scientific research technical progress report as requested.
• Present research findings/presentations at monthly lab meetings and attend scientific discussion weekly meetings.

REQUIRED DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• MS and 6 years’ experience or PhD and at least 3 years' experience.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• MS Office, including Access.
• Working knowledge of FDA Animal Rule.
• Working knowledge of the Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance for Industry.
• Experience drafting/editing/reviewing laboratory Standard Operating Procedures.
• Experience designing and executing studies relevant to their area of expertise as demonstrated by their publication record or industry experience.
• Must possess deep analytical and critical thinking skills with the ability to analyze, interpret, draw conclusions from data and write final reports.
• Experience optimizing bioanalytical parameters for Investigational New Drug studies in a GLP environment.
• Experience with full, partial, and cross validations at the scientist level.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

REQUIRED CITIZENSHIP AND CLEARANCE:

• U.S. Citizen
• Must pass NACI background check.
• Must be willing to work in a BSL 3/4 laboratory.
• Must be eligible to enroll in the BPRP and CS-PRP programs.

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is a fast-growing government service provider. Employees enjoy competitive salaries. Eligible full-time 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. We are proud to state that we do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. 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.

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, Kūpono Government Services, and Kāpili Services, Po`okela Solutions, Kīkaha 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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