Research Assistant I - Dr. Rivas

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 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 supports ongoing research projects within the Combat Wounds Infection Division at the Naval Medical Research Command. The Research Assistant contributes to in vitro, ex vivo, and/or in vivo studies by preparing materials, conducting assays, maintaining documentation, and ensuring experimental readiness. Work is performed under the guidance of Scientists and senior staff, with increasing independence expected over time. The Research Assistant is responsible for maintaining data integrity, adhering to established SOPs, identifying deviations or anomalies, and communicating findings or concerns promptly. This role requires strong attention to detail, technical proficiency in laboratory techniques, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research team. The Research Assistant contributes to laboratory operations, supports mentorship of junior staff (as applicable), and participates in process improvement efforts aimed at enhancing experimental reliability and efficiency.

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.

• Execute laboratory experiments in support of ongoing research projects following approved SOPs and protocols.
• Prepare reagents, media, plates, and materials required for in vitro, ex vivo, and/or in vivo studies.
• Conduct routine microbiological and molecular biology techniques including but not limited to bacterial culture, plating, MIC assays, cloning support, and protein preparation (as applicable).
• Assist in maintenance of eukaryotic cell lines and tissue cultures, as needed.
• Collect, organize, and upload raw experimental data in accordance with laboratory data integrity standards.
• Perform basic data checks and identify procedural deviations or anomalies.
• Maintain accurate laboratory documentation including electronic and written records.
• Ensure proper labeling, sample traceability, and adherence to quality control standards.
• Monitor laboratory equipment and environmental conditions relevant to assigned experiments.
• Identify potential contamination risks or workflow issues and escalate concerns appropriately.
• Support inventory management by monitoring reagent and consumable levels and communicating needs in advance.
• Assist Scientists and senior staff in preparing technical summaries, reports, and presentation materials, as requested.
• Train and mentor Laboratory Assistants in routine procedures, as assigned.
• Coordinate with technical and professional staff to ensure experimental readiness and timely completion of studies.
• 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 in Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related scientific field.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.

• Ability to meet deadlines of projects

• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

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

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$26.77. 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.