Biobank Assay Specialist

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. We focus on developing and applying research tools and techniques to empower decision-making and accelerate research discoveries, working with top research organizations including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

About the role

Axle is seeking a Biobank Assay Specialist to join our team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in Bethesda, MD. This role involves:

• Overseeing operation of the roboticized PhIP-Seq platform (60% effort)
• Providing biobank backup support for biospecimen processing and aliquoting (20%)
• Learning to support flow cytometry, ELISA, and Quanterix Simoa assays (20%)

Work is performed on-site in a BSL-2 lab with human biofluids and tissues.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine analysis and tests on specimens in the laboratory
• Process and organize multiple samples simultaneously
• Ensure specimens and equipment are available and in good order
• Store new samples, update databases, and retrieve samples with proper authorization
• Provide experimental progress updates
• Plan, execute, and arrange laboratory experiments, techniques, and procedures
• Perform fundamental procedures required for research projects, including aseptic technique
• Operate laboratory machines and instruments; prepare specimens and equipment for use
• Perform flow cytometry-based experiments, including cell preparation, sorting, and molecular analysis
• Perform sample management and storage; maintain inventory systems
• Retrieve, catalog, and process samples (e.g., blood and tumor tissue)
• Analyze, document, and report procedures; prepare detailed reports for senior staff
• Collect and enter research data into laboratory notebooks and databases
• Maintain inventory of laboratory supplies and initiate purchase orders
• Clean and sterilize instruments, glassware, and equipment
• Perform routine and advanced equipment maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting
• Monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules
• Train staff in performing routine laboratory tests and procedures
• Provide technical expertise and recommend new strategies
• Deliverables:
  • Undergo Tecan 780 Fluent training (Ad-Hoc)
  • Communicate assay progress to assay users (Bi-Weekly)
  • Schedule equipment maintenance (Yearly)
  • Prepare annual PhIP-Seq usage and expenditure report (Bi-Annually)
  • Notify PIs of assay completion (Ad-Hoc)
  • Deliver processed data to assay users and PIs (Ad-Hoc)
  • Review PhIP-Seq queue (Daily)
  • Perform biospecimen logging (Weekly)

Requirements

• MLS/Medical Technology degree or master’s degree (or equivalent)
• At least 2-4 years of hands-on laboratory experience in biomedical, clinical, or translational research settings
• Demonstrated experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory and handling human biofluids and/or tissues
• Ability to maintain accurate sample records, logs, audit trails, and QC documentation
• Experience with vacutainers, PCR, and NGS library prep strongly preferred
• Experience working in CAP- or CLIA-certified labs strongly preferred
• Proficiency in Excel and pipetting

Benefits

• 100% Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational benefits for career growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts: Healthcare (FSA)
• Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
• Dependent Care Assistance Program (DCAP)
• Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Pay

Salary Range: $70,000 USD - $80,000 USD