Research Associate I - Influenza Immunology (VICD)

About the role

The Frederick National Laboratory is seeking a Research Associate I to join a new high-impact laboratory focused on developing and implementing validated immunoassays for evaluating immune responses to influenza virus and vaccines. This role is part of a larger effort to develop vaccines with durable protection against seasonal influenza, led by the Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate (VICD).

Responsibilities

• Responsible for sample management and inventory
• Optimize and validate procedures and methodologies for assessing immune responses to infections and vaccines
• Plan experiments and conduct testing of large numbers of samples from clinical studies
• Independently design and implement protocols, troubleshoot assays and experiments
• Evaluate, analyze, and compile data, maintain databases
• Manage quality control and quality assurance procedures, order supplies, maintain equipment and inventories
• Prepare reports, present data, and participate in report and proposal preparation
• Contribute or write Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or protocols in Master Control
• Utilize Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for laboratory operations
• Stay current on literature and relevant laboratory techniques
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university or a minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience in lieu of degree
• Knowledge of vaccines, immunology, and virology
• Demonstrated experience in cellular and molecular biological techniques, including tissue culture, aseptic techniques, cell line maintenance, production of plasmids and virus-like particles, western blot, ELISA, virus neutralizing assays, plaque assays, and PCR
• Familiarity with LIMS and Master Control (or other electronic documentation system)
• Experience in or familiarity with Good Clinical Laboratory Practices (GCLP)
• Excellent record-keeping and organizational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Bonus Qualifications

• Master’s degree in relevant studies
• Experience in developing, validating, and implementing immunological assays, including ELISA and antibody-based tests
• Experience with large data sets, statistical analysis, and software tools
• Experience in laboratories operating under GCLP/GMP/GLP/CLIA
• Experience with robotics and electronic documentation systems and LIMS

Hazards

This position involves working with infectious materials, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.