Molecular Biologist

About the role

We are looking for a Molecular Biologist (Virology Core Biological Scientist) to support the Vaccine Research Center (VRC) at NIAID by performing advanced protein engineering, purification, and characterization work in support of virology and immunology research.

Responsibilities

• Design and optimize recombinant protein expression systems for multiple host platforms.
• Perform protein purification and characterization using biochemical and biophysical assays.
• Conduct protein-antibody interaction studies and analyze kinetic data.
• Support structure prediction, molecular modeling, and data visualization efforts.
• Operate and maintain laboratory instrumentation, including FPLC, BLI, and SPR systems.
• Maintain laboratory inventory, documentation, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Analyze experimental data and support reporting through presentations and manuscripts.
• Collaborate with NIH investigators and multidisciplinary research teams.

Requirements

• Master’s degree
• A minimum of THREE (3) years of experience in molecular biology, protein engineering, or related laboratory research.
• Demonstrated expertise in protein production and purification techniques, including aseptic technique, chromatography, and molecular characterization.
• Demonstrated proficiency in kinetic analysis, including hands-on experience with BLI or SPR.
• Ability to operate and maintain protein purification and analytical instrumentation.
• Familiarity with molecular visualization tools such as PyMOL, ChimeraX, or AlphaFold.
• Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills to support multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and scientific software tools.

Qualifications

• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD “public trust”; candidates must receive approved adjudication prior to onboarding with Guidehouse.
• Candidates with an active public trust or suitability are preferred.

Skills

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related biomedical field preferred.
• Background working with recombinant protein-antibody interaction studies and assay development.
• Exposure to advanced protein engineering strategies and chimeric protein design.
• Familiarity with high-throughput kinetic platforms and epitope binning techniques.
• Ability to support data visualization and structural modeling for scientific communication.

Pay

The annual salary range for this position is $74,000.00-$124,000.00. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors, including but not limited to skill sets, experience and training, security clearances, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs.

Schedule

Full-time position located in Bethesda, MD.