Research Assistant I - Biomedical Informatics
HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to support the Biomedical Informatics (BIC) Department located at the Uniformed Services University (USU) in Bethesda, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to BIC.
BIC supports advanced biomedical research instrumentation and services for the USUHS and is comprised of six scientific core facilities: genomics, flow cytometry, microscopic imaging, translational imaging, histopathology, and structural biology/proteomics. The incumbent serves as a geneticist in the BIC genomics core facility, providing genomics support to investigators, technical personnel, and students authorized to use BIC facilities. The incumbent directly interacts with investigators, technical personnel, and students, as well as technical sales and service agents. The work involves complex technical procedures that consist of unrelated steps and multiple processes.
Responsibilities:
- Provides superior products, services, and training to users of the genomics facility. Provides expertise in genomics, genetic analysis, and gene expression, to include DNA/RNA sample preparation and quality control, nucleic acid sequencing and synthesis, qPCR and other expression assays, and data analysis. Operates and maintains genomics facility instrumentation, to include independently calibrating instruments and selecting appropriate reagents and operation parameters to ensure reliable results. (70%)
- Properly collects biohazardous and chemical waste products and coordinates with EHS for their safe removal; inspects the genomics facility and makes recommendations on actions for regulatory and control compliance. (10%)
- Schedules instrument usage and bills for products, services, and training. Maintains laboratory supply inventories and monitors expenditures for purchases. (10%)
- Assists users with the development of experimental protocols, aids in the preparation of data for publication, recommends corrective action for insufficient results, and maintains records of experimental data and results. Remains abreast of new developments in genomics, acquires familiarization with new instrumentation and technical advances, and attends courses and training sessions to acquire new skills and refine techniques. (10%)
- 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.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the principles and theories of molecular genetics, genomics, and biochemistry as would be acquired through a minimum of a bachelor's degree.
- Technical skills in laboratory techniques of molecular genetics, genomics, and biochemistry.
- Experience in research data acquisition and analysis. Experience in the operation of sophisticated laboratory instrumentation.
- Skill in the use of standard software programs (databases and spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation graphics) and sophisticated scientific software applications.
- Strong skills in clear, correct, and concise verbal and written communication. Ability to communicate scientific principles and technical requirements to users. Ability to skillfully resolve research and user problems.
- Knowledge of scheduling, billing, purchasing, and budgeting. Ability to schedule a wide range of user requirements to maximize productivity and minimize conflicts.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, such as listening, negotiating, managing, and advising users. Skill in persuasion and motivation is required to facilitate smooth user interactions and communications.
- Knowledge of appropriate precautions for handling biological and chemical hazards to ensure their safe use and disposal.
Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree is required.
Minimum Experience/ Training Requirements: Minimum 0-2 years of relevant work experience required.
Work Environment: Set within a laboratory work environment.
Background/Security: Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Tier I investigation/Public Trust and a Common Access Card (CAC).
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, addresses, education, and credentials, a criminal background check, drug screening, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check.
Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.