Research Associate II - Influenza Immunology (VICD)

About the role

The Frederick National Laboratory is seeking a Research Associate II to join a new high-impact laboratory focused on developing and implementing validated immunoassays for evaluating immune responses to influenza 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

• Optimize and validate procedures and methodologies for assessing immune responses to infections and vaccines
• Plan and conduct experiments involving large numbers of clinical study samples
• Design and implement protocols independently, troubleshoot assays and experiments, and evaluate data
• Analyze and compile data, maintain databases, and prepare reports
• Manage sample inventory and supply ordering
• Contribute to and 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
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university or equivalent experience
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience
• Detailed knowledge of vaccines, immunology, and virology
• 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

Prioritized 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 working under Good Clinical Laboratory Practices (GCLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)
• Experience with robotics and electronic documentation systems and LIMS

Hazards

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to non-discrimination and providing equal opportunities for all qualified applicants. We value diversity and inclusion in our workplace.

Pay and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $70,500.00 - $100,901.00 USD per year, with additional factors considered for final compensation. Benefits include competitive compensation, health and wellness programs, income protection, paid leave, and retirement plans.

Contact

To learn more about the Frederick National Laboratory and how you can contribute to its mission, visit our website at https://frederick.cancer.gov/.