Lead Biological Science Laboratory Technician - Culmen International LLC

Established in 2004, Culmen International is committed to enhancing international security, strengthening homeland defense, optimizing government operations and providing humanitarian assistance around the world.  We provide technical and management expertise, develop innovative technology solutions, and deliver youth care services, logistics, training and language services worldwide. With experience in over 140 countries, Culmen supports our clients to accomplish critical missions in challenging environments.

Culmen International is looking for a Lead Biological Science Laboratory Technician for support a Walter Reed Army Institute Research Program in Silver Springs, MD.

Maintain up-to-date certifications in all required training courses as per Institute policies, which cover laboratory safety, security, information management, animal care, among others. Oversee the laboratory in compliance with WRAIR, AALAC, and Safety regulations, addressing all improvement requests promptly in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI). Ensure laboratory equipment is managed according to WRAIR standards and liaise with external vendors for necessary repairs and maintenance. Conduct behavioral experiments on rats using sophisticated computer-controlled systems like the elevated plus maze, acoustic startle, open field, operant conditioning, associative conditioning, and other designated tests. Carry out blood collections, tissue dissections, and the appropriate processing and storage of samples to facilitate research. Contribute to the creation of new experimental methods, techniques, or procedures, including electrophysiological recordings and surgical operations on animals. Process, analyze, and present data in graphical or other structured formats as per laboratory protocols. Update and maintain laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices in coordination with the PI and research team. Foster a professional and positive relationship with research assistants and other staff members at the Institute. Actively manage and participate in various laboratory projects, ensuring the lab calendar reflects resource and personnel allocation in line with laboratory priorities and the PI's guidance. Organize the storage and inventory of supplies, equipment, and materials, including laboratory animals, necessary for experiments and laboratory upkeep; oversee the initiation and monitoring of supply and animal purchase requests based on the PI's input. Prepare administrative documents for internal submission, requiring minimal supervision from the PI, while not being limited to these tasks.

A Master's degree with at least two years of experience in preclinical research, or a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of five years of experience and progressive responsibility in preclinical research is required. Candidates must be able to work independently after a short period of specific technical training. Proficiency in productivity software such as Word, Excel, GraphPad Prism, SPSS Statistics, among others, is essential. Adherence to the scientific standards of responsible research conduct and scientific integrity is mandatory. US Citizenship is Required. 

• Exceptional Medical/Dental/Vision coverage with 100% of the premiums paid by the company for all employees and their eligible dependents
• 401k – Vested immediately and 4% match
• Life insurance and disability paid by the company
• AFLAC Available
• Tuition Assistance
• 12 Paid Holidays

At Culmen International we are committed to creating, promoting, and sustaining a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our commitment to these values is unwavering across all our work around the world.  We include and celebrate employees of diverse races, genders, religions, sexual orientations, ethnicities, nationalities, socioeconomic statuses, languages, (dis)abilities, ages, and religious commitments. These differences drive innovative solutions to meet the needs of our employees and clients. Culmen is an equal opportunity employer.