Research Associate II - VICD

Program Description

The Vaccine, Immunity and Cancer Directorate (VICD) at the Frederick National Laboratory investigates immune responses to vaccines in preclinical and clinical studies. The laboratory collaborates with stakeholders to develop assays with the highest reproducibility, sensitivity, and specificity for evaluating immune responses against emerging viruses, leveraging extensive expertise in HPV serology.

Responsibilities

• Perform tissue culture and immunological/virological techniques, including aseptic techniques and cell line maintenance.
• Develop and qualify/validate T‑cell assays by multi‑color flow cytometry.
• Conduct serology projects from conception to execution.
• Manage sample inventory using laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Optimize and validate procedures and methodologies for assessment of immune responses.
• Perform immunoassays and test samples from clinical studies.
• Implement protocols and troubleshoot assays and experiments independently.
• Evaluate, analyze, and compile data; maintain databases.
• Perform routine QC/QA procedures, order supplies, and maintain equipment and inventories.
• Prepare reports, present data, and contribute to report and proposal preparation.
• Develop, review, and modify SOPs in Master Control and perform required validations.
• Maintain equipment, supply inventory, and assist with routine laboratory operations.
• Independently troubleshoot assays, processes, and laboratory matters and report issues to management.
• Stay current on relevant literature and laboratory techniques.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in immunology, vaccinology, molecular biology, or a related field, or four years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree (foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency).
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in a biomedical laboratory.
• Detailed knowledge of vaccines, immunology, and virology.
• Expertise in tissue culture, cell line maintenance, plasmid and virus‑like particle production, western blot, ELISA, Luminex assays, flow cytometry, virus neutralization assays, and PCR.
• Experience performing T‑cell functional analyses using multi‑color flow cytometry, including panel design, acquisition, and high‑dimensional analysis.
• Excellent record‑keeping, organization, communication, and presentation skills (written and oral) with proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in immunology, vaccinology, virology, or molecular biology.
• Experience managing laboratory operations.
• Experience developing and validating immune assays (ELISA, multiplex) under GCLP or GLP conditions.
• Proficiency handling large data sets and statistical analysis using standard software tools.
• Experience in laboratories operating under GCLP, GMP, GLP, or CLIA.
• Familiarity with robotics, automated systems, electronic documentation systems, and LIMS.

Job Hazards

This position involves working with or potential exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and appropriate immunizations.

Pay and Benefits

• Salary range: $72,200.00 – $103,400.00 USD (full‑time equivalent).
• Competitive compensation package.
• Health and wellness programs.
• Income protection.
• Paid leave.
• Retirement benefits.