Scientific Reviewer

About the role

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company specializing in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications. This part-time position supports the Division of Intramural Research (DIR) at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, MD.

Responsibilities

• Gather information to identify and assess gaps in knowledge and research opportunities; provide staff with background information for strategic planning.
• Provide timely responses to inquiries from program staff, reviewers, and applicants; stay informed of all actions.
• Make assignment decisions and resolve conflicts based on knowledge of the scientific interests of the Institute.
• Perform administrative review of research grant applications.
• Serve as liaison to other offices and entities inside and outside the NIH.
• Identify specific areas of expertise for peer review panels; search databases and prepare lists of potential reviewers.
• Work with collaborating organizations to identify acceptable reviewers for joint protocols.
• Code database fields using biomedical ontologies where applicable.
• Prepare preliminary drafts of summary statements; review draft documents and synthesize comments from reviewers.
• Cross-check data and verify content from source documents.
• Provide critical review of literature and evaluate research concepts, proposals, protocols, and reports.
• Validate and enter information into databases; assign applications to reviewers.
• Determine appropriate meeting type (face-to-face, teleconference, internet-assisted, etc.).
• Identify involved persons who must be on a conflict-of-interest list and address deficiencies prior to review.
• Enter, update, and verify conflict data for all reviewers.
• Consult with program staff to identify potential reviewers and ascertain conflicts of interest.
• Attend peer review meetings to take notes for final summary documentation.
• Schedule review meetings; prepare materials for reviewers; interact with staff.
• Assist with coordinating and planning conferences and meetings for DIR senior staff, lab chiefs, and other attendees.
• Obtain, evaluate, and coordinate written critiques from expert reviewers.
• Provide quality control for the manuscript clearance process for the Scientific Director’s office.
• Evaluate incoming reviews for completeness and accuracy.
• Provide support for various committees and activities for the DIR/NIAID.
• Verify data entered into the computer by checking printouts/reports for errors and making corrections as required.
• Analyze scientific content of grant applications.
• Provide subject matter expertise, analysis, and logistical and writing support for developing research programs.
• Communicate closely with responsible parties and system owners to ensure the system is up to date.
• Mentor and train staff on scientific peer review processes and procedures.
• Serve as the liaison between the DIR Office of the Director and the DIR Laboratories; provide expertise and solutions to questions and support for laboratory personnel.

Deliverables

• Run Validation – Monthly
• Meet with lab members to present updates – Weekly

Requirements

• 10 years of experience is equivalent to a Ph.D.
• Field of Study: Community and Public Health

Skills

• Logistical planning
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook

Benefits

• 100% Medical, Dental & Vision Coverage for Employees
• Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
• 401K match up to 5%
• Educational Benefits for Career Growth
• Employee Referral Bonus
• Flexible Spending Accounts:
  • Healthcare (FSA)
  • Parking Reimbursement Account (PRK)
  • Dependent Care Assistant Program (DCAP)
  • Transportation Reimbursement Account (TRN)

Pay

Salary Range: $60 USD - $64 USD