Associate Scientist, HPV Genomics Team Lead, CGR

Job ID: req3608
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Clinical Research Program
Facility: Rockville: 9615 MedCtrDr
Location: 9615 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, MD 20850 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 Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) investigates the contribution of germline and somatic genetic variation to cancer susceptibility and outcomes in support of the NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), the world’s most comprehensive cancer epidemiology research group. CGR is located at the NCI-Shady Grove campus in Rockville, MD and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. We care deeply about discovering the genetic and environmental determinants of cancer, and new approaches to cancer prevention, through our contributions to the molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic research of the 70 investigators in DCEG. Working in concert with epidemiologists, biostatisticians and basic research scientists in DCEG’s intramural research program, CGR provides the capacity to conduct genome-wide discovery studies and targeted regional approaches to identify the heritable determinants of various forms of cancer. This includes the design and analysis of high throughput studies using various types of “–omics” technologies such as array- and sequence-based genome-wide association studies, studies of tumor characteristics using integrated genomic data analysis, and molecular epidemiologic studies based on novel assays focused on the metabolome and microbiome.

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our team to support studies that influence global decisions on HPV vaccine expansion and dosing recommendations that will have a direct impact on human health to enable prevention or early-detection of cervical cancer.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES
Within CGR, the Genomics Laboratory is a fast-paced, high-throughput, genotyping and sequencing facility dedicated to the support of genetic and epidemiologic studies for investigators at the National Cancer Institute. We are recruiting for an Associate Scientist position that will be the Team Lead for an independent group focused on HPV (human papillomavirus) research within the Genomics Laboratory. The successful candidate will have operational and managerial responsibility for leadership of a team of laboratory staff performing high-throughput viral genotyping, sequencing and epigenomic assays. Consistent generation of high-quality data from these assays is a critical component of large-scale studies that will influence recommendations for global vaccination strategies. Key responsibilities include:

• Supervise a team responsible for high-throughput HPV typing, screening, and methylation assays using Next-Generation Sequencing technology
• Work seamlessly and collaboratively with multiple teams across CGR including project management, technology development/optimization, LIMS, QA, and bioinformatics, utilizing available resources to fully integrate newly validated assays into a production environment, and successfully move projects forward
• Collaborate with other Team Leads within CGR to create development opportunities for staff, maintain a safe and vibrant working environment, and ensure a cohesive, consistent approach to laboratory procedures
• Utilize molecular biology expertise to ensure that highly sensitive assays are performed successfully
• Ensure team has the necessary reagents, controls, and materials needed
• Review sequencing metrics and primary data analysis results to evaluate assay performance and identify issues that need to be addressed
• Establish and utilize system to evaluate assay and/or control performance over time
• Quickly and effectively troubleshoot laboratory procedures when assay performance is not optimal
• Ensure proper documentation of all laboratory processes performed by the team
• Maintain and update SOPs; ensure staff are trained appropriately on required procedures
• Participate in all facets of the work done by the team
• Interview, select, coach, mentor, and develop staff

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

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

• Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education
• Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In addition to educational requirement, a minimum of eight (8) years related biomedical experience
• Proven knowledge and expertise in molecular biology with excellent lab skills
• Ability to maintain a high degree of flexibility for a rapidly changing research and technological environment
• Experience troubleshooting with minimal supervision including identifying critical variables in an experiment
• Experience with prioritization in a high-pressure environment; ability to manage time effectively and coordinate staff schedules
• Experience training and mentoring staff
• Working knowledge of Windows-based computer operating systems and Microsoft office suite
• Excellent organization and communication skills
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Expertise with a wide range of specimen types and analytes used in genomics
• Expertise in troubleshooting and optimization of PCR and NGS assays
• Experience using automated high-throughput laboratory equipment, such as automated liquid handlers, including use, maintenance, and troubleshooting
• Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) for sample and workflow tracking of laboratory processes

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.
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