Molecular Biology Senior Scientist

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) has a Potential need for a Molecular Biology Senior Scientist to support our government customer located in Frederick, MD at Fort Detrick.

DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve as lead Scientist for the High content imaging capability at USAMRIID. Support the In Vitro Screening Core pipeline for testing molecular libraries (small molecule, peptide, nucleic acids) for efficacy against biothreat pathogens. Lead Scientist is responsible for data collection, analysis and evaluation. Ensure that data meets rigorous standards of quality control.
• Responsible for providing technical training to Institute personnel on use of automated equipment, as well as day to day maintenance of high-resolution microscopes and operation of high-content imaging instruments that support the high throughput in vitro screening efforts.
• Collaborate with Institute PIS on developing assay protocols to assist in their research efforts. Apply their knowledge and experience using existing platforms (i.e. Opera High Content Imager, plate readers, high-resolution Leica STED platforms and 3D bioprinter) as well as identify new platforms to advance MCM discovery, evaluation, and development.
• Support the In Vitro Screening Core pipeline for testing large molecular libraries (small molecule, peptide, nucleic acids, antibodies) for efficacy against biothreat pathogens. Senior Scientist is responsible for sample logistics, data collection, quantitative analysis of imaging and/or biochemical HTS data and integration of data sets from various platforms using software such as Genedata, Spotfire and Acapella. Ensure that data meets rigorous standards of quality control.
• Applies expert knowledge in high throughput screening to evaluate data analysis software applications for integration into the testing platforms. Responsible for ensuring that data is stored, archived and maintained in appropriate databases and USAMRIID IT systems.
• In collaboration with USAMRIID leadership, author or coauthor research proposals, solicitations, and other vehicles to solicit financial support to meet USAMRIID mission/portfolio objectives. This includes assisting in answering service calls from government sponsors (e.g. DTRA).
• Identify, foster, and assist in the management of external collaborations with other government agencies, non-profits, academic, and private-sector research organizations and companies. This includes assisting in interactions with partner agencies to increase access to molecular libraries of interest.
• As the Senior Research Scientist for the High resolution and high-content high-throughput imaging capability, is expected to present work at 1-2 Scientific Meetings per year. Also, this effort may require travel to support collaborative efforts with pharmaceutical, academic, and external partners.
• Prepare and provide Lead Scientist Research/Technical.
• Present research findings/presentations at monthly lab meetings and attend scientific discussion weekly meetings.
• 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 scientific conferences. Present results in written and oral format publicly and internally as requested.
  
  

REQUIRED DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION:

• Doctoral degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics or related field preferred.
• Must have graduate level training and proficiency in statistical analysis biomedical research, and quantitative analysis.
• Must have the knowledge, skills, and abilities in multiple relevant academic disciplines, including biomedical and mechanical engineering, neuroscience, psychology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and neuroanatomy. Areas of research interest include but are not limited to kinetic and non-kinetic TBI, injury biomechanics, cellular biology, biomarkers, neuropathology, PTSD, sleep rhythmicity, combat stress, psychological and physiological stress, and resilience.
  
  

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• This effort requires a knowledge of specialized microscopes for live cell or high-resolution imaging, 3D bio printing as well high-content automated imaging cell based systems used for HTS of MCM directed against various biothreat agents.
• In addition, application of strong computational background/programming experience using R, python and pearl are required.
• This effort requires and ability to assemble and work in multidisciplinary teams using interpersonal skills, and communication/organizational skills.
  
  

REQUIRED CITIZENSHIP AND CLEARANCE:

• U.S. Citizen
• Must pass NACI background check.
• Must be willing to work in a BSL 3 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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