Research Assistant II - NeuroTrauma Department

About the Role

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant II to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves problems of standard complexity in carrying out research projects in a clinical or laboratory environment. This position will be in support of the NeuroTrauma Department's Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) research program, within the Operational Undersea Medicine Directorate (OUMD), located at the Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC) in Silver Spring, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to OUMD.

Responsibilities

• Assists in executing and implementing scientific research in the areas of traumatic brain injury and/or post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Assists in performing laboratory research utilizing a variety of experimental techniques in neuroscience, experimental psychology, and cellular/molecular biology. Specifically, common lab techniques will involve animal surgery, various histological techniques including staining and tissue preparation for fluorescence and electron microscopy, Western blot, PCR, ELISA, and other techniques as necessary.
• Maintains databases. Performs data entry for research projects ensuring that data is entered for analysis in a timely, efficient manner. Ensures that the confidentiality and security of data are maintained.
• Performs laboratory research projects, including collection and organization of data, and maintaining databases. Makes detailed observations on experiments.
• Assists in the preparation of reports, publications, and presentations.
• Follows instructions and standard operating procedures to perform expected tasks. May provide basic instruction to other lab staff.
• Assists with collection and handling of samples and keeping detailed records of experiments.
• Assists with the preparation of data and manuscript for scientific presentations or journal publications.
• Assists with training of junior staff.
• Provides basic data analysis and interpretation.
• Assists with the coordination of organized meetings and training. May include conference calls, space reservations, creates/gathers informational documents and equipment, registration, and travel.
• Maintains cleanliness of laboratory areas.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in biology, neuroscience, or a related discipline required.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of neuroscience and related cellular/molecular biology techniques are required.
• Strong background and hands-on experience in molecular techniques such as PCR and ELISA; histological techniques; animal handling and surgery.
• Excellent time management and self-motivated.
• Ability to follow general instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Must be able to work in a team as well as independently.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.
• US citizenship is required.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.
• Long periods of standing and sitting; intricate work with hands; handling of specimens or chemicals.

Work Environment

Laboratory environment; may involve working with biohazards; may require working evenings and weekends.

Pay

The hourly pay range for this position is $22.16-$26. 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.