Research Assistant I - Microbiology and Immunology

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to support research in host response to viral infection and the design of novel vaccines and therapeutics. Provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff in the laboratory. Solves problems of standard complexity in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment; makes solutions and reagents as required for laboratory operations. This individual will be responsible for performing experiments with mice in a BSL-2/ABSL-2 environment, following appropriate on-site training. They will also perform molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, as directed by senior staff; maintain laboratory databases; place orders for supplies and laboratory reagents. They will participate in safety/regulatory compliance and other laboratory support activities, including testing of safety equipment, meeting with laboratory inspectors, and interfacing with the animal husbandry department.

This position will be in support of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences under the direction of Dr. Brian Schaefer.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Performs research projects, including the collection and organization of data. Follows instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Performs data entry in accurate, timely, and efficient manner. Maintains clear and accurate data collection records and inventories in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Creates, collects, disseminates, and maintains appropriate study data.
• Assists in the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and protocols. Creates and communicates detailed observations on experiments.
• Will support animal injections, imaging of live animals, dissection and tissue harvesting from euthanized animals, other routine activities required for the management of the onsite and offsite mouse colonies.
• 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.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Must be willing learn and perform technical duties with mice in a lab setting.
• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.

• Excellent organization and ability to keep detailed paper and electronic records.

• Prior experience with molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, including PCR and DNA cloning.
• Prior experience with tissue culture.
• Animal handling experience, particularly in a research setting.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$24.00. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

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, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.