Molecular Research Associate

The Alaka'ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is looking for a qualified Molecular Research Associate to provide Scientific Support at the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Disease (NIAID) high containment facility.
The Molecular Research Associate will support government approved research by providing technical support to characterize st-pathogen interactions, and develop medical countermeasures to high consequence pathogens, investigating host/pathogen interactions of high consequence viral pathogens at the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) Integrated Research Facility located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, Maryland. Working within an existing team, the technician will perform virology-based assays. He/she will be responsible for proficiency in the use and maintenance of all equipment and procedures for the assigned area with ability to cross-train in related support areas.
DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Virology assays to include but not limited to titration by plaque assay
• Perform qualifications and validations for assays and instrumentation.
• DNA/RNA extraction, purification, quantification, transcription, replication, amplification and mutagenesis
• Analysis of viral load in blood and tissue samples using quantitative real time PCR (one-step and two-step assays)
• QC analysis of viral samples including endotoxin, mycoplasma and sterility testing
• Complete training for various assays and continue with yearly proficiency assessments.
• Implement assays per well-documented standards and contribute to the development of standard methods
• Effectively manage and schedule tasks. Rapidly adjust to changing experimental priorities.
• Routinely work in high containment laboratories
• General lab safety, organization, and maintenance of laboratory space in both BSL-2 and BSL-4.
• Maintain freezer and reagent inventories, common lab consumables, and lab equipment in both BSL-2 and BSL-4.
• Prepare packages for shipment
• Initiates and contributes to the resolution of unexpected events or deviations that may occur.
• Prepare and maintain inventory for PCR reagents to include primers, probes, standards, and controls.
• Prepare and analyze data with an understanding of acceptance criteria.
• Participate in general laboratory housekeeping, to include but not limited to biohazard waste management.
• Participate in a wide range of research facilitation, laboratory studies, analyses, analytic and computational models, simulations, and other technical and analytical support.
• Contributes to the quality initiative of the department.
• Engage in typical studies that entail exposure of laboratory rodents or non-human primates to microbial agents by appropriate routes (e.g. intravenous, intramuscular, or via aerosol) to elucidate an acute disease process or evaluate a therapeutic intervention.
• Engage in longer term studies that include evaluation of candidate vaccines for immunogenicity and protective efficacy as well as evaluation of sequelae following recovery from acute disease.
• Comply with the NIH Division of Occupational Health and Safety requirement for satisfactory completion of the Biosurety program and Select Agent program.
• Play a role in ensuring that the Biosurety program promotes a security conscious culture
• Comply with the physical security, protection of the division's property, protection of information, cyber security, agent protection, control and accountability, safe disposal and waste handling, and personal security guidelines set forth by the division's Biosurety program.
• Other duties as assigned.

DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENT:

• Bachelor of Science or higher degree. (Biology and/or Chemistry preferred)
• Ability to work in BSL-4 setting.
• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain certification in Biological Personnel Reliability Program.
• Must have the ability to obtain/maintain CDC Select Agent Program approval.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Must be willing to participate in periodic drug screening.
• Minimum of two (2) years of applicable experience.
• Previous laboratory experience including basic understanding of design, optimization and implementation of quantitative PCR assays.
• Must be willing to work in a biosafety level 2 (BSL2) and/or 3 (BSL3) and/or 4 (BSL 4) environment and able to wear appropriate respiratory protection. The candidate will be required to work in BSL4 containment environment and will be required to pass physical exams.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Previous field work experience.
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Proficiency in Quantstudio 5/7 or Similar Real Time PCR Acquisition and Analysis software
• Basic understanding of laboratory information management systems (LIMS)
• Demonstrated ability to work independently
• Demonstrated critical thinking skills/problem solving/good reasoning skills
• Excellent customer relations and interpersonal skills required.
• Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills

REQUIRED CITIZENSHIP AND SECURITY CLEARANCE:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.
• Ability to obtain/maintain DoJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval.
• Individual must be able to meet the requirements for Individual must be able to meet the requirements for T3 Secret level investigation.

The Alaka'ina Family of Companies (FOCs) is a fast-growing government service provider. Employees enjoy competitive salaries; a 401K plan with company match; medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; tuition reimbursement; paid time off; and 11 paid holidays. Laulima Government Solutions, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer of individuals with disabilities and veterans. 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 Kapili Services, Po`okela Solutions, Kīkaha Solutions, LLC, and Pololei Solutions, LLC. Alaka`ina Foundation activities under the 501(c)3 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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