Biologist

Overview

We are seeking a Biologist to support the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Bethesda, MD. Our NIAID professional, technical, and scientific support personnel are part of a team focused on positively impacting millions of lives around the world. Candidates will work at a diverse and vibrant NIAID worksite to directly support ongoing research activities as a contractor team member. Take the next big step in your career and apply below to help us make a difference.

CAMRIS International is a dynamic clinical research and international development firm that achieves innovative solutions to health and development challenges through high-quality, cost-effective programs and research management services. We combine our proven systems with today’s most effective, evidence-based best practices. Our core practice areas include: clinical research; vaccine research, microbiology and infectious disease research, development and production; biodefense; global health security; and HIV/AIDS programs. 

Our employees enjoy a diverse, collegial environment where individual contributions matter at all levels. At CAMRIS, you will notably improve the lives of people at home and abroad.  

Responsibilities

• Perform a wide range of complex procedures and techniques including cell culture, molecular biology, DNA/RNA analysis, DNA/RNA isolation, DNA/RNA purification, DNA/RNA next generation (Illumina) sequencing, flow cytometry, and gene cloning.
• Conduct research including planning and conducting experiments and data analysis.
• Calibrate and operate a variety of laboratory instruments under GLP guidelines and follow SOP’s to perform test, analysis, and other procedures.
• Interact with scientists from other organizations or institutions involved in similar or related research projects.
• Interact with students, post-doctoral fellows and non-doctoral research technicians on experimental design and laboratory-based methodologies.
• Maintain accurate, daily records of experiments.
• Perform high level next generation DNA/RNA sequencing data analysis.
• Oversee project pipeline for the Genome Analysis Core.
• Develop novel protocols for sequencing viral genomes by sequence alignment and primer design.
• Manage the use and upkeep of the Genome Analysis Core next-generation sequencers and library prep workstation.
• Design and implement improved methods to existing standard next generation sequencing protocols.
• Develop protocols into SOP’s for use in training material.
• Assist with training technicians and students on the proper usage of automated robots, laboratory instruments, and equipment.
• Operate and troubleshoot automated robots, laboratory equipment and software.
• Stay up to date on current scientific methods through peer-reviewed journals.
• Incorporate breakthrough methods into current workflows to improve efficiency and quality.
• Design and implement novel programs and methods on existing and new automated robots.
• Create time-efficient data analysis protocols for qPCR data.
• Create time-efficient data analysis protocols for DNA quantification data.
• Develop workflows for more streamlined sample preparations using combinations of automated robots.
• Collaborate with scientific engineers to advance their technologies for future beta testing to improve throughput using novel sub-microliter automation.
• Maintain integration of new instrumentation to increase the project versatility of the Genome Analysis Core.
• Facilitate project onboarding for internal VRC collaborators for the Genome Analysis Core.
• Monitor provision of timelines and frequent updates for internal and external collaborations for the Genome Analysis Core.
• Maintain troubleshooting of automated robots, laboratory equipment and software.
• Serve as a liaison between Genome Analysis Core and external vendors (Illumina, SPT, Formulatrix, Ultima Genomics, etc.).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Life Sciences or a related discipline.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in biology or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques such as nucleic acid isolations, PCR, and qPCR.
• Experience with high throughput library prep for NGS.
• Sample quality assessment.
• Demonstrates experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Demonstrates knowledge of maintaining accurate and detailed records.
• Demonstrates knowledge of proper laboratory disposal methods and safety procedures.

CAMRIS International LLC offers competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. Please submit your resume online at www.CAMRIS.com. CAMRIS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by any applicable federal, state, or local law.

Some positions or sites may require that the incumbent be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination may be required.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a Public Trust-level background check, a requirement for this position under an active federal contract. The background check process may include, but is not limited to the following: (1) contacting your professional references; (2) verification of previous employment, education and credentials; (3) a criminal background check; (4) use/abuse of federally-controlled substances; and (5) a department of motor vehicle check. Candidates must be prepared to fully-complete any required background check questionnaire during initial onboarding.