Lead Biologist

About the role

The Lead Biologist at ATCC is responsible for conducting complex experiments in the study of biological materials and processes, taking a lead role in coordinating testing and studies that advance product development and research, collecting and reporting data and findings, and determining methods for monitoring laboratory supplies, equipment, and cleanliness.

Responsibilities

• Determine methods and procedures for conducting diverse experiments to study the effects of varying materials, chemicals, environments, and physical conditions on biological materials and processes.
• Perform viability and purity checks on biological materials.
• Decide which biological techniques are utilized to contribute to tests and studies that advance product research and development objectives. Investigate, create, and develop new methods and technologies for project advancement.
• Collect and analyze complex data, make detailed observations, and interpret results. Test, validate, and document results neatly and accurately in notebooks, batch records, and databases.
• Collaborate and communicate scientifically. Perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. Document, present, and draw meaningful conclusions of research findings to help inform and support difficult decisions, and fill in for the supervisor in meetings as needed.
• Lead laboratory operations by determining methods for ordering, monitoring, and reporting on department supply levels, monitoring equipment functionality, and cleaning laboratory equipment. Prepare for internal and external audits.
• Lead, guide, and coordinate the work of laboratory staff within assigned projects. Remain current and in advance of biology research methods, techniques, and developments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and 8 or more years' experience, including 0-2 years' supervisory experience or equivalent experience (PhD + 3 years, Masters + 6 years).
• Extensive experience with molecular biology QC testing required.
• Demonstrated ability to lead complex laboratory work, evaluate variable factors, and coordinate work across projects with minimal supervision.
• Experience conducting complex experiments on biological materials and processes, including viability and purity testing in a regulated environment.
• Strong data analysis and documentation skills, with the ability to accurately record results in notebooks, batch records, databases, and formal reports.
• Experience supporting laboratory operations, including supply monitoring, equipment oversight, cleanliness, and audit readiness.
• Strong ability to mentor and lead others.
• PREFERRED: Advanced knowledge of molecular biology techniques, including PCR methods (endpoint PCR, qPCR, digital PCR, RT-PCR), sequence analysis, genotyping, and LIMS.
• PREFERRED: Experience with Good Documentation Practices and creation and revision of GxP documentation.
• PREFERRED: Advanced degree in Molecular Biology or related field.

Benefits

• The expected salary range for this position is $95,000 to $110,000 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience and qualifications as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. In addition to base salary, this role may be eligible for additional incentive compensation including regular merit increases and the corporate bonus program.
• We Invest in You:
  • Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical coverage and company paid Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, AD&D, and paid parental leave
  • Work life balance with Paid Holidays and PTO
  • Fitness and cell phone subsidies, and additional benefits such as legal services, pet insurance and additional supplemental coverage.
  • Employee Assistance Program offering around-the-clock counseling
• Financial security:
  • 401(a) (6% employer contribution) and 403(b) (2% match) retirement plans
  • Exceptional career advancement opportunities, recognition, and rewards
  • Corporate bonus program
• Mission Focused:
  • Non-profit organization supporting critical life science research
  • We give scientists the tools they need to make discoveries that improve and save lives
  • Contribute to community involvement and social responsibility

Company

ATCC is a private, nonprofit, global biological resource center and standards organization. We provide the scientific community credible biological products, advanced model systems, and high-quality services that support complex research in a variety of innovative applications resulting in incredible achievements in basic science, drug discovery, translational medicine, and public health.

We support the scientific community with the world’s largest and most diverse collection of human and animal cell products, as well as molecular genomic tools, microbe products, and biological materials. We offer a host of services, as well, including cell and microbial culturing and authentication, development and production of controls and derivatives, proficiency testing, and biomaterial deposit services. Through our ATCC Federal Solutions initiative, we lend our expertise to federal agencies in areas that include global health and infectious diseases, biodefense, and noncommunicable diseases.

We've developed a quality commitment, which includes ISO accreditations and standards, that has allowed ATCC to evolve from a traditional culture collection founded in 1925 to a biological resource center with an infrastructure that supports the future of life science and biotechnology.

Our newly expanded headquarters and bioproduction facility is located in Manassas, Virginia, near Washington DC, and a recently renovated research and technology center of excellence in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

CONNECT

• Website: http://www.atcc.org/
• Phone: (703)365-2700
• Location: 10801 University Boulevard Manassas Virginia 20110 United States