Staff Scientist 2

• Handling, receipt, and processing of operational, Quality Assurance (QA), and proficiency test (PT) samples potentially containing biological threat agents
• Performing non-research biological science work utilizing microbiological and molecular techniques, including, but not limited to, DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) to identify and characterize pathogenic bacterial and viral agents
• Preparing reagents and samples
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)
• Decontamination of work spaces, including Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs), hoods/air boxes, equipment, and other items associated with processing and analysis activities
• Maintaining chain-of-custody
• Interpretation of results
• Data entry utilizing computerized or computer-linked systems
• Performing routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing internal laboratory swipes/swabs for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) and contamination monitoring
• Proper disposal of biohazardous waste
• Restocking and maintaining proper inventory of necessary supplies
• Supporting Program logistics in conducting and documenting annual inventory of DHS-procured durable equipment and property
• QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in accordance with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Laboratory Operations Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP)
• Adhering to QA/QC requirements in accordance with the Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and the QAPP
• Maintaining documentation of records demonstrating compliance with applicable training/retraining, competencies, and document reviews
• Analyzing routine external QA samples in accordance with the SOP’s and QA Program guidance
• Proper archiving, storage, and shipping of samples
• Demonstrating ability to follow and adhere to written procedures and accepted practices in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, safety, security and dress code policies, procedures, and guidelines, including DHS Safeguarding Sensitive but Unclassified (For Official Use Only) Information (January 2005) when visiting or working at Government facilities
• Preparing written and oral technical reports, answering questions, and making recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for inclusion in comprehensive reports
• Accurately performing work with confidence
• Demonstrating competency in various testing methodologies (e.g., multi-center studies), evaluating potential products and processes against unique environmental backgrounds, and meeting established deadlines
• Scheduled workdays include weekends and holidays
• Must be present for all hours of the workday and be available 24/7/365 in case of emergency

• Must be able to obtain/maintain a DHS Suitability security clearance
• Ph.D. or Masters’ degree from an accredited university in microbiology, molecular biology, or related course work in biological sciences with at least one (1) year of laboratory bench experience outside of an academic environment, utilizing PCR, aseptic techniques, and biological assays
• OR Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university requires four (4) years of laboratory bench experience outside of an academic environment
• At least one (1) year of experience serving as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader of a laboratory team/project

BSL-3 experience is desirable

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
• Educational reimbursement
• Parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tax-saving options
• Disability and life insurance
• Pet insurance