Research Assistant I - ID

Join the HJF Team!

The Henry Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is seeking a motivated candidate to support the Military HIV Research Program (MHRP) located at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) in Silver Spring, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support to MHRP.

The Laboratory of Integrative Multiomics, led by Dr. Rasmi Thomas, uses cutting-edge next-generation sequencing technologies to identify variation in genes involved in host-pathogen interactions. We are at the forefront of developing these technologies for analyses of transcriptomes of single cells and detection of transcripts from intracellular pathogens. The group integrates transcriptomics with other 'omics' datasets, such as proteomics and epigenomics, to gain insight into the mechanisms underlying disease acquisition, pathogenesis, and response to vaccination. (https://www.hivresearch.org/our-team/rasmi-thomas-phd)

We are seeking a Research Assistant I to perform molecular biology assays and procedures to investigate host restriction factors in infectious diseases, including HIV-1, dengue and zika, in the context of natural infection, treatment, and vaccine studies. The successful candidate will have experience in nucleic acid extraction and PCR. Experience in next-generation sequencing is a plus. The candidate must be detail oriented, conscientious, and able to multi-task. Interpersonal skills and the ability to work as a team are required. This position provides an opportunity to perform research that addresses questions critical to military personnel and world health.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

Note: This site requires that non U.S. Citizens reside in the United States for three of the five recent years.

• Executes laboratory protocols (nucleic acid extractions/ quality control assays/ nucleic acid quantitations/ PCR/ library preparations/ sequencing) for research projects in accordance with standard operating procedures.
• Performs database entry in an accurate, timely, and efficient manner.
• Maintains clear and accurate laboratory records in accordance with good laboratory practice.
• Keeps up-to-date with required training.
• Maintains laboratory supplies and general lab upkeep, ensures organization and cleanliness in accordance with good laboratory practices.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor including additional lab procedures as well as computer-based projects.
• The individual would be part of the freezer monitoring system and should to be able to come onsite during off hours in response to freezer alarm calls

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in biological science required.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard molecular laboratory procedures and general approaches and protocols, including DNA and RNA extractions and PCR.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and execute technical molecular and cell-based protocols.
• Ability to function as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain detailed laboratory notes.
• Experience working with primary PBMC and mammalian cell lines preferred.
• Experience in single cell handling and next generation sequencing (NGS) preferred.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to work for extended periods while seated at a biological safety cabinet or standing while working at a laboratory bench.
• Ability to lift weights up to 20 lbs.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $18.25 - $24.04. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.