Research Associate II (wound healing, skin biology, or bioengineering) - The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Associate II to perform research and/or development in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff. May exercise technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies. May provide limited guidance to lower-level Research Associates. This is the second of four levels within the Research Associate series and responsible for research and/or development in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff.

This position will be in support of the Department of Dermatology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) in Bethesda, MD. The Dermatology research faculty advance research through original investigations on campus and through collaborations with leading scientists. This results in earlier diagnoses of life-threatening diseases and better treatments.

Research interests in dermatology span many areas, from skin regeneration and wound healing to melanoma. Researchers at USU make groundbreaking efforts in state-of-the-art and multidisciplinary fields, such as genomics, proteomics, and drug-delivery mechanisms. We are committed to advancing the field of dermatology through clinical expertise, operational input, and research in the Army, Air Force, Navy, and U.S. Public Health Service.

Note: This work site requires that Non-US Citizen incumbents have lived in the US three out of the past five years. 

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Performs routine data analysis using molecular and cellular approaches, including transcriptomic, genomic, and proteomic. Tabulates data for basic interpretation and verifies and corrects data entry.
• Conducts research using human or mammalian cells or tissues in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff.
• Performs complex laboratory tests, determinations, and analyses involving multiple procedures and a variety of technical approaches, including those using in-vitro and in-vivo model systems.
• Documents current or new procedures or protocols for sample selection, data collection, data processing, and/or statistical estimation.
• Analyzes and prepares reagent and/or assay product documentation. Organizes and procures needed reagents, performs experiments, analyzes data, and documents results.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training in advanced in-vitro and in-vivo model systems for the role.
• Trains junior laboratory staff in laboratory techniques and processes, as needed.

Education and Experience

• Master’s Degree
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ experience required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience in wound healing, skin biology, or bioengineering are desirable.
• Animal handling experience required, specifically with live mice.
• Knowledge of applicable complex scientific procedures and techniques, specifically with in-vitro and in-vivo model systems.
• Procession of basic knowledge and skills is desirable for the following areas:
  • Cell culture
  • Cell proliferation assays
  • Formation of in-vitro 3D constructs and spheroids
  • Extraction of RNA, DNA, and protein with analysis using RNAseq, PCR, genotyping, western blot, and immunohistochemistry
  • Experience in murine models including survival surgery and tissue harvesting
• Demonstrate excellent communication skills analytical skills.
• Poses the ability to troubleshoot technical procedures.
• Ability to meet deadlines of projects.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Some positions or sites may require that the incumbent be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination may be required.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.