Biotechnology Research Scientist

About This Role

This role involves scientific research in biotechnology, focusing on microbial cultures and genetic manipulation, to support the defense community. The position is for a scientist who can execute basic and applied research, optimize protocols, and document findings for government-format presentations.

Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain microbial cultures in specified environments using sterile technique, autoclaving equipment, nutrient broth and agar plate preparation, inoculation, culture management, biohazardous waste disposal, and preparation of frozen stocks
• Ensure preparation and safe handling of hazardous chemicals that may have corrosivity, flammability, and toxicity risks, including liquids with acidic and alkaline pH, organic solvents, and others
• Use techniques for the quantification, synthesis, purification, and assembly of DNA such as PCR (including Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR), Reverse Transcription (RT)-PCR), enzymatic kits for DNA manipulation, and gel electrophoresis
• Handle genetically engineered strains via electroporation and preparation of electrocompetent cells, use of antibiotics for clone selection, and testing for the presence of the introduced genes
• Properly use instruments for fluorescence observations via flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, or plate reader, including sample preparation and fluorescence staining
• Perform enzymatic and molecular assays for kinetic or endpoint analyses
• Optimize protocols that use microbes in combination with material or chemical agents for their functionalization, fixation, immobilization, or entrapment
• Comply with policies on record-keeping and distribution limits for data and technical information
• Prepare and present presentations and written documents summarizing efforts in Government format for Form 1 approval (process of instruction provided by COR as GFI). Upon TO COR request, Contractor personnel shall present the information to staff, universities, private corporations, research institutes, national laboratories, or other Government research centers
• Participate in programmatic and technical meetings, both virtually and in-person

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences and 2+ years of relevant experience
• U.S. citizenship required
• Active Security Clearance or Eligible to Obtain
• Experience executing basic and applied research to evaluate the genetics and behavior of microorganisms
• Experience with the design, assembly and testing of functional genetic circuits
• Experience documenting experimental and analytical procedures, methods, results, and conclusions

Benefits

• Comprehensive insurance options
• Paid time off