Scientist

We are seeking a Scientist to support the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH), world renowned National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Bethesda, MD. Our NIAID professional, technical, and scientific support personnel are part of a preeminent team focused on positively impacting millions of lives around the world with groundbreaking research. Candidates will work at a prominent and vibrant NIAID worksite to directly support exciting ongoing research activities as a contractor team member. Accelerate 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 collegial environment where individual contributions matter at all levels. At CAMRIS, you will notably improve the lives of people at home and abroad.  

• Coordinate and execute formulation and stability studies within a development team, including internal and interdepartmental coordination of activities as well as collation and interpretation of study data, under direction of a Formulation Scientist/Senior Scientist.
• Write and review formulation, stability, and method development study protocols under direction of a Formulation Scientist/Senior Scientist.
• Independently generate and analyze samples using both standard and advanced study specific analytical methods.
• Independently analyze and collate analytical data.
• Interpret analytical data with an understanding of protein/vaccine structure and stability concepts, and elements of the effects of solution components on stability.
• Develop assays for vaccine and biotherapeutic characterization, including providing input into study design, under direction of a Formulation Scientist/Senior Scientist.
• Provide technical guidance and training to formulation team members.
• Write and review technical reports and protocols documenting formulation, stability, and method development studies.
• Present data in small group, department, and conference settings.
• Obtain information on new scientific advances in the field and new technologies, as required to for VRC programs
• Oversee external service and execute routine maintenance and troubleshooting for one or more pieces of laboratory instrumentation.
• Serve as Subject Matter Expert for one or more analytical and/or theoretical areas relevant to the formulation development program.
• Other duties as assigned.

• B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 4 years (minimum) industry, government or equivalent experience in protein formulation or a related field.
  OR
• M.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 2 years (minimum) industry, government or equivalent experience in protein formulation or a related field.
• Experience with study coordination and execution in one or more of the following areas: protein/vaccine formulation, protein/vaccine stability, protein/vaccine pre-formulation or related biophysical characterization/development.
• Hands-on experience, including data analysis and basic theoretical knowledge, with three or more of the following techniques: UV-visible, fluorescence, Circular Dichroism and/or IR spectroscopy; Differential Scanning Calorimetry; Particle characterization (light scattering, subvisible particle analysis, HIAC, and/or MFI).
• Strong knowledge of protein chemistry and biophysical properties of proteins.
• Knowledge of standard biophysical and bioanalytical methods and underlying theory.
• Experience with data analysis using standard and specialized software platforms (JMP, Origin, GRAMS, Prism, SigmaPlot, etc.).
• Strong time management skills and experience balancing multiple projects.
• Strong written, oral, and visual communication skills.
• Ability to work independently
• Proficiency with Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, or other equivalent software suites.

Physical Requirements:

The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by a candidate to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

• Ability to lift or carry less than 25 pounds, push or pull less than 25 pounds, reach above shoulder level and use both hands.
• Will be required to stand or walk more than 25 of 30 min., bend repeatedly, and climb.
• Must have depth perception, correctable near vision, distinguish basic colors and perform repetitive activities.
• Ability to work alone and closely with others, work on ladders or scaffolding and work with hands in water and solvents
• Will be required to be in contact with lasers (open or closed) in instrument.
• Will work with corrosive substances, inorganic dust and powders, heavy metals, plastics, solvents and sensitizing agents.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, face shields/goggles, safety glasses, safety shoes, lab coat and disposable dust/surgical mask.

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.

CAMRIS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for individuals and families, FSAs, HSA, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability, legal services, voluntary hospital indemnity, critical illness and accident insurances, EAP, pet insurance, 401(k) with employer match and Roth option, tuition and professional reimbursement, public transportation support in the DMV area, a referral bonus program, vacation with tenure-based increases, PTO, 11 paid holidays, paid bonding leave, and paid supplemental short-term disability.

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.