Research Scientist II - Diagnostic Research Laboratory

Responsibilities

• Design, conduct, and manage independent and collaborative research projects to support the unit’s human and animal research programs.
• Utilize advanced molecular and multi-omic laboratory technologies to support unit studies and precision medicine initiatives (e.g., Next-Generation Sequencing, advanced PCR, LC/MS, flow cytometry, cell culture, and histological processing).
• Independently design, optimize, and validate novel assays for molecular and microbiological translational studies.
• Monitor scientific literature, formulate experimental hypotheses, design experimental protocols, and standard operating procedures.
• Provide technical training, mentorship, and scientific guidance to junior staff, GME residents, and support staff on study design, proposal preparation, and experimental execution.
• Process and interpret experimental data, maintain detailed workbook/documentation, and ensure documentation fulfills generally accepted professional/industry standards.
• Collaborate with clinical and basic science researchers to translate research findings into applications.
• Create and present abstracts and posters at scientific conferences.
• Ensure compliance with Office of Human Research Protection standards, federal regulatory agencies, and facilitate strict adherence to safety and quality control protocol.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Qualifications

• Doctoral Degree Required. Ph.D. or equivalent terminal doctorate degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Genomics, or closely related field.
• Prior experience with assay development and validation required.
• Minimum of 5-8 years independent research experience required.
• Deep technical expertise in molecular diagnostics (e.g., Next Generation Sequencing, advanced PCR, LC/MS, flow cytometry, etc).
• Experience in developing innovative molecular diagnostic solutions from concept to validation.
• The ability to effectively produce data for and author professional, peer reviewed journal articles, manuscripts, research grant applications, posters and research reports required.
• Experience in conducting independent research, study design, quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies, statistical analysis, and scientific writing.
• Ability to work independently, collaboratively, and in a supervisory capacity depending on local leadership needs.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent research and educational initiatives.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and collaborative learning and research environment.
• Ability to establish productive collaborations with academic, military, and government stakeholders.
• Strong record of scientific publications and/or successful grant support.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust Background Check.