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.  

• Performs conjugations of lab owned molecules following established laboratory protocols and procedures.
• Assist the Federal Task Leader in developing novel conjugation methods using available technologies to improve immunogenicity of malaria protein targets, including protein purification, modification and formulation.
• Characterizes conjugated proteins by utilizing current and newly developed analytical methods to document biophysical and biochemical characteristics.
• Conducts small scale conjugations using established protocols to study malaria vaccines to be tested in preclinical models.
• Records and writes protocols based on small scale conjugation research projects to be used by other sections within the laboratory.
• Uses UV/VIS spectrometry, AKTA, HPLC, UPLC, MALS, SDS-PAGE and other available techniques to analyze malaria vaccine conjugated products; uses standard protocols to estimate substitution rates of modified of protein molecules.
• Organizes data collected in the laboratory into a format that can be used to publish manuscripts into scientific manuscripts, slides, posters, and reports.
• Provides support to other laboratory staff on research projects and techniques.
• Collaborates with external industry/academia to apply the results of research.
• Assist the Federal Task Leader with creating new research protocols.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• At least a bachelor's degree in a science related field with at least five (5) years of laboratory experience performing conjugation research using malaria proteins.
• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience in modification of proteins, protein chemistry, protein assay design, protein purification, and protein characterization.
• Background in a science related field.
• Has an interest in malaria vaccine discovery and research.
• Excellent documentation and communication skills.
• Basic computer skills including experience with Microsoft Office suite of software.

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, lift or carry 25 – 50 pounds, push or pull less than 25 pounds, push or pull 25 – 45 pounds, reach above shoulder level, and use both hands.
• Will be required to stand or walk more than 25 of 30 min., and bend repeatedly.
• Must have depth perception, have correctable near vision, ability to distinguish basic colors, and perform repetitive activities.
• Ability to work alone and closely with others, work protracted or irregular hours, work on slippery or uneven working surfaces, and work with hands in water.
• Will be required to be in contact with human blood or other body fluids.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, safety glasses, and lab coat.

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.