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.  

• Plan and execute a wide range of complex procedures and techniques including, aseptic cell culture, molecular biology (DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, analysis, purification, Illumina next generation sequencing, RNAseq through single cell SMARTseq, 10X Genomics), and cellular assays (binding and neutralization).
• Design and implement improved methods to existing single-cell sequencing protocols.
• Develop and optimize assays for diverse new projects.
• Conduct research including planning and conducting experiments and data analysis.
• Maintain and operate a variety of laboratory instruments.
• Collaborate with scientists from other organizations or institutions involved in similar or related research projects.
• Provide support and mentor to students, post-doctoral fellows and non-doctoral research technicians on experimental design and laboratory-based methodologies.
• Maintain accurate daily records of experiments to include the organization and archiving of research data properly.
• Manage project pipeline for the Vaccine Immunology Program.
• Maintain, operate, and optimize robotics to increase library prep throughput and sample clean-up.
• Integrate single cell next generation sequencing instruments (NextSeq, Miseq, 10x Chromium) to increase the project versatility of the Genome Analysis Core.
• Produce high quality scientific data and analysis consistently using new methods such as single cell sequencing.
• Analyze and interpret research data, communicate results and methods in reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
• Prepare presentations of research for internal data review and for external audiences.
• Help train post-baccalaureate IRTAs in molecular biology assays in the core.
• Train collaborators in molecular biology assays performed by the core.
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in a BSL-2 laboratory.
• Work collaboratively with team members to complete all tasks for the day but also be accountable as an individual for personal tasks.
• Utilize various laboratory equipment such as Biological Safety Cabinet (BSC), centrifuge, pipettes, liquid nitrogen tank, and others.
• Perform basic equipment maintenance as needed.
• Write and revise SOPs within VIP’s electronic database.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Master’s degree in Biology, Life Sciences, or a related discipline. Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a BA/BS degree is equivalent to a Master’s degree.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in biology or a related field including cell and molecular biology, immunology, and/or next generation sequencing.
• Experience with complex procedures and techniques including but not limited to aseptic cell culture, molecular biology, and cellular assays:
• Specifically with DNA/RNA isolation, cloning, purification, Illunina net generation sequencing, RNAseq through single cell SMARTseq, and 10X Genomics.
• Experience maintaining and operating a variety of laboratory instruments.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work well with others and independently.

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.
• Must have depth perception, ability to distinguish basic colors, and perform repetitive activities.
• Ability to work alone and closely with others, work on shifts, and work with solvents.
• Will be required to be in contact with human blood or other body fluids.
• Will have contact with HIV-1, HIV-2, MMR viruses, and Varicella virus.
• Will work with aerosols, biological inhalants, corrosive substances, plastics, and solvents.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, face shields/goggles, safety glasses, 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.