Assistant Scientist
MRIGlobal
Summary
Our laboratory, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland, is seeking to hire an entry level scientist to work in the Integrated Health, Surveillance, and Diagnostics group. This staff member will become an integral part of our team receiving vital experience with research, development, sample preparation and analysis, while gaining a thorough understanding of relevant federal regulations, QA/Safety/SOPs, and instrumentation.
Job description
With supervision, this position will perform technically based tasks and laboratory experimentation related to microbiology and molecular biology applications according to established protocols and SOPs. The individual will contribute to research project procedures and data analysis. Typical methods include culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR techniques, and immunoassay analysis. The individual will be responsible for proficiency in the use of all equipment and procedures for the assigned area(s) with strict adherence to quality control and quality assurance assessments.
Basic Function
- Conducts technical tasks and laboratory experimentation under general supervision using established or project-specific protocols and SOPs
- Conducts experimental work on projects following established protocols and procedures
- Contributes to developing test plans, experimental designs, and analytical methods
Minimum Qualifications
- B.S. or B.A. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related discipline
- Knowledge and/or experience in a research environment, basic analytical skills, sample preparation and analysis, experience with bioanalytical methods, such as real-time PCR, immunological analysis, next generation sequencing (Illumina and ONT MinION)
- PC skills and ability to learn new software and systems
- Ability to effectively communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment
- Ability to work independently
- Maintain laboratory notebook and prepare raw data for submission to supervisor
- Detail oriented
- Adept time management skills, ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be flexible
- Proficient oral and written communication skills
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. In order to meet the government security investigation requirements, U.S. citizenship is a prerequisite.
Requirements
- B.S. or B.A. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related discipline
- Knowledge and/or experience in a research environment
- Basic analytical skills
- Sample preparation and analysis experience
- Experience with bioanalytical methods such as real-time PCR, immunological analysis, next generation sequencing (Illumina and ONT MinION)
- PC skills and ability to learn new software and systems
- Ability to effectively communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment
- Ability to work independently
- Maintain laboratory notebook and prepare raw data for submission to supervisor
- Detail oriented
- Adept time management skills, ability to work under pressure, multi-task, and be flexible
- Proficient oral and written communication skills
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance
- U.S. citizenship is a prerequisite
Benefits
- Health Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Gym Reimbursement
- Mental Health Support
- Retirement Matching
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Wellness Benefits
- Financial Education
Company overview
MRIGlobal is an independent, nonprofit applied research organization founded in 1944 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. Originally established as the Midwest Research Institute, the organization has evolved into a world leader in applied science and technology research, serving government agencies, commercial businesses, and academic institutions. With approximately 201-500 employees and multiple locations across the United States, MRIGlobal specializes in translating new technologies to support better health outcomes for humans, animals, and the environment. The organization's diverse technical capabilities span national security and defense, energy and environment, life and animal sciences, agriculture and food safety, and transportation sectors. MRIGlobal has a distinguished history of collaboration with major federal agencies including NASA, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Army, the National Cancer Institute, and the Department of Energy. The organization's expertise encompasses pharmaceutical research and clinical trial support, infectious disease biosurveillance and diagnostics development, biological and chemical threat agent detection, and laboratory management operations. As a trusted partner to government and industry, MRIGlobal delivers innovative solutions to complex biological, chemical, and engineering challenges through independent research and development services.