Research Assistant I - Medicine

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff at Uniformed Services University(USU) and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center (WRNMMC), and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

This position will be in support of Dr. Boggs' and Dr. Snow's lab, at USU, Department of Medicine located in Bethesda, MD. The incumbent will assist in processing and analyzing blood and serum samples related to two funded research projects entitled (1) "Genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and variant functional analyses of subjects with inborn errors of immunity and phenocopies in the Military Health System.", and (2) "Temporal and Metabolic Regulation of Restimulation-Induced Cell Death (RICD) in Human T Cells"

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.

• Performs independent laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which will involve specialized procedures including: isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from human blood by Ficoll gradient centrifugation, human lymphocyte cell culture and stimulation, nucleic acid extraction/purification/transfection, RT-PCR, preparation of whole cell and/or fractionated lysates, Western blotting, flow cytometry, ELISA and other microtiter plate assays, and other techniques as needed/required by the laboratory
• Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments.
• Performs data entry in accurate, timely, and efficient manner. Maintains clear and accurate data collection records and inventories in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation in accordance with Good Clinical and/or Good Laboratory practices.
• Creates, collects, disseminates, and maintains appropriate study data.
• Assists in the preparation of technical reports, summaries, and protocols. Creates and communicates detailed observations on experiments.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required.
  
  
  
  • Biological sciences preferred.
  
  
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.
  
  
  
  • At least 1 year of experience in a lab environment highly preferred.
  
  

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.
• Knowledge and expertise in immunology and/or cell biology
• Preference for those with experience studying human lymphocyte responses, including flow cytometric-based assays
• Pipetting experience a must
• Competence in all routine areas of modern cellular and molecular biology including mammalian cell culture, recombinant DNA technology, and immunoblotting.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 public trust background investigation.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.
• May sit or stand for long periods of time.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting, working with biohazardous materials and human blood products.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $18.25-$24.00. 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.

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

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