Laboratory Technician

Position Objective: Provide services as a Laboratory Technician in support of the overall functions of the Laboratory of Virology (LV), Division of Intramural Research (DIR) – RML, Hamilton, MT within the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform a wide variety of procedures and techniques which may include, but are not limited to: cell culture (including primary cells and organoids), clinical/diagnostic microbiology, DNA analysis, DNA isolation, DNA purification, DNA sequencing, flow cytometry, gene cloning, protein analysis, qRT-PCR, RNA isolation, ELISA, etc.
• Perform a wide variety of virological techniques which may include, but are not limited to: virusisolation, preparation of virus stocks for experiments, confirming sequence of virus stocks, virustitration, plaque assay, virus neutralization assay, etc.
• Work with pathogens at multiple biosafety levels: BSL2, BSL3, and/or BSL4 laboratories, specifically supporting research on the pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 virus bird flu.
• Work with animal models, including rodents and nonhuman primates and human organoid cultures to assess the risk of this virus (and other emerging viruses) to human health.
• Assist the Federal Task Leader (FTL) with viral research aimed at finding therapeutic treatment for severe diseases, and efficiently respond to new variant outbreaks.
• Perform general lab management, and responsible for laboratory upkeep and routine maintenance of equipment, maintaining laboratory supplies and equipment including chemicals, biological materials, etc., required to handle biological materials, carcinogens, recombinant protein materials, acids, biological wastes, etc., maintaining work bench and equipment related to projects.
• Catalog and label laboratory samples. Assist with maintaining and organizing inventory of samples and metadata, and with managing inventory of laboratory supplies and reagents. Liaise with vendors as needed.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments and their results and prepare the information resulting from these experiments for sharing with the FTL and for publication.
• Write and record/file reports of findings, stating methods and procedures, including any modifications employed, specimens and materials involved and results of experiments.
• Maintain laboratory records. Interpreting, evaluating, and discussing the results of each experiment with the Principe Investigator (PI) as part of the planning process for subsequent studies.
• Assist the PI in the analysis and interpretation of data and preparing summaries of laboratory findings to be used in reports and papers for publication in scientific journals.
• Operate and communicate effectively in a group, team-oriented working environment. Work with and support others in a collegial, open, respectful, and interactive working manner. Work collaboratively with others in the lab to generate data and reports for publications.
• Perform quality control of the laboratory, such as cleanliness, upkeep of the supplies, and follow all lab safety protocols.
• Fulfill NIH annual mandatory training requirements as applicable.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology or related discipline required
• Minimum 1-3 years of work experience.
• Accepted into the NIH Biosurety Program, must keep updated with all necessary training.
• Fully trained for independent access to BSL4 laboratory, and must adhere to all BSL4 safety requirements and policies.
• Work location: RML Bldg. 28/2A120B.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Detail-oriented and possess strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and projects
• Effective communication skills working in a team atmosphere
• Ability to work flexible hours when experimental needs require it.

*This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required by this position.  

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

GAP Solutions provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need an accommodation to apply for a job, email us at recruiting@gapsi.com. You will need to reference the requisition number of the position in which you are interested. Your message will be routed to the appropriate recruiter who will assist you. Please note, this email address is only to be used for those individuals who need an accommodation to apply for a job. Emails for any other reason or those that do not include a requisition number will not be returned.

GAP Solutions is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, ethnicity, ancestry, color, sex, religion, creed, age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and gender expression, familial status, political affiliation, genetic information, or any other legally protected status or characteristics.

This position is contingent upon contract award.