The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is looking for a qualified Support Scientist at Fort Detrick, Maryland.

DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES:

Supports scientific activities within the Molecular Virology and Microphysiological System’s Group. Efficiently plan, execute, and report scientific activities conducted in accordance with directives from the Group. Conducts and independently leads research projects within the Group and outlined government program. Activities may involve studies that focus on molecular biology, organs-on-chip, in vivo and vitro experiments related to virology. Includes assistance with and handling of samples and data from animal experiments. Laboratory techniques and hands-on skills in the area of microphysiological systems such as organ-chips, organoids, 3D-printed tissues, primary cells, generation and handling of inducible pluripotent stem cells. Maintains strong working knowledge on current molecular biology and virology techniques, including but not limited to the following: Reverse genetics and genomics Organ/organoid on a chip system Viral life cycle surrogate systems (viral pseudotyping, VLPs, minigenome and budding systems) Gene knock in/knock out Mechanisms of action Cloning and bacterial vector systems Enzymatic assays Virology assays to include but not limited to titration by TCID50 and plaque assays DNA/RNA extraction, purification, quantification, transcription, replication, amplification, and mutagenesis, PCR/real-time PCR, microarray Analysis of viral load in blood and tissue samples using quantitative real time PCR (one-step and two-step assays) in molecular biology and classical virology methods, to include the following: In vitro and in vivo systems (animal models) for the study of infectious diseases Writes and edits SOPs, animal study protocols, study reports, manuscripts and data summaries for assigned projects. Generate master and working stocks of virus and other microbial agents as directed that are well documented and characterized. Help in generating study plans using approved templates and SharePoint processes provided prior to initiation of in vitro and in vivo experiments. Generate high quality interim and final study reports and develop them for timely publication in peer reviewed journals. Actively participate in practices/processes to enhance data quality and integrity including periodic review of study execution to identify gaps and refine procedures. Supervise more junior staff members in effectively conducting and troubleshooting assays, analyzing and reporting results  Other duties as assigned by Supervisor.

DEGREE/EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum of a M.S. or higher degree in Virology or a related field from an accredited college or university. Ability to obtain/maintain DOJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval. Must be willing to participate in periodic drug screening. Must have the ability to obtain/maintain certification in Chemical Personnel Reliability Program and/or Biological Personnel Reliability Program. Must have the ability to obtain/maintain CDC Select Agent Program approval. Willingness to work under BSL-3 - BSL-4 conditions. Able to wear respiratory protection.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Must have professional experience in the field of molecular biology and/or animal virology Strong background and recent hands-on experience in molecular biology methods, cell culture, iPSC and/or microphysiological systems optimization, troubleshooting, and analysis. Ability to multitask and conduct experiments in support of multiple projects and Study Directors. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Performs well within an interdisciplinary team. Agility to adapt quickly to project priorities. Must be able to obtain/maintain DOJ Security Risk Assessment (SRA) approval. Must be willing to be immunized with licensed and FDA-approved vaccines for persons at risk to occupational exposure of biological agents. Must be willing to participate in periodic drug screening Must have the ability to obtain/maintain compliance in the NIH Biosurety Program Must have the ability to obtain/maintain CDC Select Agent Program approval. The candidate will be required to work in BSL4 containment environment and will be required to pass physical exams and participate in vaccination programs.

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of two (2) years of applicable experience Previous laboratory experience including basic understanding of design, optimization and implementation of quantitative PCR assays

REQUIRED CITIZENSHIP AND CLEARANCE:

Must either be a U.S Citizen or Permanent Resident/Green-Card Holder. Individual must be able to meet the requirements for T3 level clearance.

 

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is a fast-growing government service provider. Employees enjoy competitive salaries. Eligible employees enjoy a 401K plan with company match; medical, dental, disability, and life insurance coverage; tuition reimbursement; paid time off; and 11 paid holidays.

We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We are proud to state that we do not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status. If you are a person with a disability and you need an accommodation during the application process, please click  to request accommodation. We E-Verify all employees.

The Alaka`ina Foundation Family of Companies (FOCs) is comprised of industry-recognized government service firms designated as Native Hawaiian Organization (NHO)-owned and 8(a) certified businesses. The Family of Companies (FOCs) includes Ke`aki Technologies, Laulima Government Solutions, Kūpono Government Services, and Kapili Services, Po`okela Solutions, Kīkaha Solutions, LLC, and Pololei Solutions, LLC. Alaka`ina Foundation activities principally benefit the youth of Hawaii through charitable efforts which includes providing innovative educational programs that combine leadership, science & technology, and environmental stewardship.

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