Overview In this role you contribute to infectious-disease research by applying microbiology and NGS techniques within the NMRC BDRD program. You work on sample processing, sequencing, and genomic characterization, collaborating with scientists and bioinformatics staff to support biodefense and biosurveillance goals. You will develop and optimize wet-lab protocols and maintain meticulous records, with opportunities to travel for partner laboratories and field activities. This position offers hands-on impact in a mission-driven environment and exposure to cutting-edge sequencing technologies.
Compensation / Benefits- medical
- dental
- vision
- paid time off
- 401(k)
- life insurance','flexible work schedules','holidays
Responsibilities- Perform microbiology and molecular-biology procedures to support infectious-disease research
- Process clinical, environmental, bacterial, viral, bacteriophage, or other samples
- Support NGS library preparation, sequencing, and QC activities
- Assist with bacteriophage isolation, sequencing, and host-related studies
- Develop, optimize, and standardize wet-lab SOPs and protocols
- Maintain accurate notebooks, sample records, inventories, and electronic files
- Analyze experimental results and communicate findings to technical leads
- Troubleshoot methods, instruments, and sample-processing issues
- Prepare protocols, SOPs, technical reports, presentations, and publications
- Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure safety and quality requirements
- Travel domestically or internationally to support partner labs or field activities
Key requirements- Master's or bachelor's degree in biological sciences or a relevant field
- At least five years of microbiology experience
- At least three years of hands-on experience with bacteriophages and/or NGS techniques
- Demonstrated ability to perform microbiology or molecular-biology procedures
- Ability to maintain accurate scientific records and follow approved protocols
- Strong communication, organization, troubleshooting, and teamwork skills
- Availability for national and international travel up to two to four weeks
- Ability to adjust work hours for time-sensitive experiments
- U.S. citizenship due to federal contract requirements
- Ability to satisfy background investigation, CAC, facility-access, and Government system-access requirements
- communication
- organization
- troubleshooting
- bacteriophages and/or NGS techniques
- NGS library preparation and sequencing
- genomic characterization
