Research Assistant I - MIC

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff. Exercises technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies. Performs limited analysis and interpretation of results.

Dr. Mattapallil's laboratory studies host virus interactions to delineate the mechanisms of viral pathogenesis and identify correlates that can be used for the development of therapeutics and vaccines. The laboratory uses a combination of in vitro cell culture systems along with small and large animal models for in vivo studies. More recently, Dr. Mattapallil's laboratory has focused on developing molecular and cellular immune response assays to support human clinical trials of anti-viral vaccines. This position will be in support of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology and located in Bethesda, MD.

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 laboratory research projects, including collection and organization of data.
• Provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff.
• Performs various molecular assays (ELISA, RT-PCR, Western blot and other assays). Follows instructions and standard operating procedures.
• Assists with animal studies, including placing orders, administering viruses, vaccines, drugs etc. to animals through various routes, harvesting blood and tissue, and processing them after harvest. Makes detailed observations about experiments and performs assays as required for the project. Provides basic data analysis and interpretation.
• Maintains the lab, takes inventory and identifies items needing replacement, packs and ensures proper disposal of infectious and hazardous materials to the designated areas, maintains specialized reagents and equipment, fills departmental liquid N2 tanks every week for 2- 3 months on a rotation basis as designated, and ensures that the Liq N2 tanks in the lab are appropriately filled as needed.
• Performs data entry in an 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.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance and participation in required training for the role.
• This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required, preferably within Life Science.
• Minimum of 0-2 years' experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of complex laboratory procedures.
• Ability to meet deadlines of projects.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.
• Ability to climb, pull, and lift heavy objects.

Work Environment

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

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33 - $21.25. 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.