Research Associate II- Next Generation Sequencing - Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

Research Associate II- Next Generation Sequencing

Job ID: req4221
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Cancer Research Technology Program
Facility: Frederick: ATRF
Location: 8560 Progress Dr, Frederick, MD 21701 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.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community and provides dedicated support to NCI's intramural Center for Cancer Research (CCR). The dedicated units provide expertise in electron microscopy, protein characterization, mass spectrometry, protein expression, optical microscopy, and genomics. These research efforts are an integral part of CCR at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR), where CRTP scientists work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Sequencing Facility is a high throughput laboratory providing cutting edge next generation technologies to the National Cancer Institute. The candidate will be responsible for assisting state-of-the-art sequencing technologies for basic and translational cancer research and providing expertise and high-level technical skill to support the core facility. Current platforms include the Illumina NovaSeq, NextSeq, MiSeq, PacBio, ONT and additional platforms in the future. All projects are of a highly specialized nature and require technical proficiency, problem solving skills and good judgment.
• Responsible for all ongoing daily activities including library prep and sequencer set up, maintenance of equipment, use of protocols, sample quality control and troubleshooting of problems with direct coordination of the supervisor.
  Project support for multiple investigators and overseeing equipment needs and execute projects to meet project timelines.
• Develop and maintain lab procedures, experimental protocols, and work instructions.
• Provide assistance and conduct trainings to team members when needed.
• Requires adherence to strict safety protocols and may require the use of personal protective equipment.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree. Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
• In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of five (5) years of related experience.
• Strong background in cell and molecular biology.
• Ability to organize and utilize reagents and samples for high-throughput analysis in support of genomic studies and two years proven experience in DNA sequencing, data review and stringent record keeping.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience with next-generation sequencing and methods.
• Experience with production of NGS libraries, sample and library quality control, and sequencing machine set up is essential.
• Experience working in a core facility or other team-based environment.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new technologies quickly and ability to assist in new protocol development.
• Familiarity with diverse sample types and processing methods.
• Working knowledge of DNA hybridization, ligation, fragmentation, PCR, automation using robotics, Agilent Bioanalyzer, nanodrop, qPCR, sterile/clean room techniques, and sample and process tracking through LIMS is also required.

Commitment to Diversity
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.

68,600.00 - 117,875.00

The posted pay range for this job is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include, but are not limited to, responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as internal equity, and alignment with market data.

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The salary range posted is a full-time equivalent salary and will vary depending on scheduled hours for part time positions