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Scientist I/II - Molecular Characterization Lab (MoCha)

Employer
Frederick National Laboratory
Location
Lewistown, MD
Closing date
Apr 2, 2023

View more

Sector
Science, Pharmaceutical, Laboratory
Organization Type
Corporate
Scientist I/II - Molecular Characterization Lab (MoCha)

Job ID: req3148
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Clinical Research Program
Facility: Frederick: Ft Detrick
Location: PO Box B, Frederick, MD 21702 USA

The Frederick National Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first-in-human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases.

Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way.

***This position can be hired at either the Scientist I or Scientist II level.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) is part of Leidos Biomedical Research's Clinical Research Directorate (CRD) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. Our laboratory consists of a dynamic team of over 40 scientific, informatics and support staff. For over 10 years, MoCha has worked closely with the National Cancer Institute's Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (DCTD) in support of DCTD-sponsored clinical trials and pre-clinical studies. We are dedicated to implementing cutting-edge genomic technologies to identify new predictive biomarkers and to make translational discoveries that will improve the lives of patients with cancer.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Scientist will use genomic technologies to lead several preclinical and clinical studies in translational oncology. The studies will leverage patient-derived mouse models or biospecimens from NCI-sponsored clinical trials and may require bringing new technologies or methodologies into the laboratory. The successful candidate will also assist the Senior Principal Scientist/Manager in the management of team projects and will be expected to contribute to the overall success of the laboratory. He/she will be expected to present findings at scientific conferences and to publish in peer-reviewed journals. The role requires mentorship of scientific staff, and some management experience is strongly desired.

Conduct and supervise independent research in the field of translational oncology, which will include studies applying single cell RNASeq, TCRb sequencing, liquid biopsies or other emerging genomic technologies.

Implement new genomic technology platforms in the laboratory and develop, optimize and troubleshoot protocols and data analysis tools to support them.

Perform data analysis and quality control evaluations, preparing research plans, proposals and new production methodologies.

Present findings at scientific conferences and to NCI leadership. Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Supervise and mentor laboratory staff.

Collaborate with NCI colleagues and with thought leaders to support translational studies conducted by NCI's National Clinical Trials Network.

Maintain a high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature and presentations.

The ability to communicate effectively with NCI and academic investigators, and a desire to be part of a collaborative team environment are a requirement for this position.

This position will be located in Frederick, Maryland.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:
Possession of a doctoral degree in cell/molecular biology or genetics from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency. Scientist I - No experience required beyond a doctoral degree
Scientist II - In addition to education requirements, a minimum of two (2) years of competent, innovative research in a field of specialty.

Strong knowledge of molecular biology and skills with analysis of human specimens.
Expertise in the field of oncology, with a strong grasp of cancer biology.
Expertise in cancer genomic biomarkers.
Attention to detail and ability to identify and successfully address unexpected results.
Ability to deliver high quality results in a timely manner.
Proven ability to independently manage projects and personnel. Demonstrated ability to work independently.
Ability to work within a highly matrix team environment.
Ability to write and orally present data and project updates in a clear and effective manner. At least one prior publication as primary author in a peer-reviewed journal is expected.
Demonstrated professional advancement in area of expertise.

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:
Experience in genomic assay development (e.g., whole exome sequencing, RNA-Seq or targeted gene panels).

Experience in single cell genomic assays or NGS assay development as applied to liquid biopsy.

Familiarity with genomic data analysis pipelines, programming languages such as R or python.

Knowledge of public genomic and transcriptomic databases, and common bioinformatics tools to support discovery and translational studies.

Familiarity with clinical oncology studies and other protocol-driven clinical research.

EXPECTED COMPETENCIES

Excellent communication skills (written and oral).

Strong technical skills in molecular biological and genomic assays.

Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests,
develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data.

Ability to track information in a large cohort of samples and monitor progress of multiple projects.

Adequate computer skills to document, organize, and present experimental data.

Proficient with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Powerpoint).

Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance.

JOB HAZARDS

This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal material(s).

This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) | Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran (M/F/D/V) | Drug Free Workplace (DFW)

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