Research Associate, Microbiology (#1905)

 BACKGROUND

The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a unique facility located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD, dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Established in response to biodefense gaps identified after the Amerithrax attacks of 2001, NBACC has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006.

NBACC supports DHS and national biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization, and bioforensic analyses. It addresses critical scientific knowledge gaps regarding biological agents to protect the public and defend the nation against biological threats - whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate. NBACC also provides federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and the protection of the U.S. bioeconomy.

NBACC is comprised of two centers:

• National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC): Conducts technical analyses to support federal law enforcement investigations.
• National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC): Conducts experiments and studies to gather data for understanding biological vulnerabilities and hazards.

Together, these centers serve as a national resource for assessing risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies, informing biodefense policy and response planning, and supporting the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline and a minimum of 4 years of related experience, or a Master’s degree with a minimum of 2 years of related experience.

• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered as substitution for the specific requirements outlined above.

• Must have experience with standard bacteriological methods including phenotypic, biochemical and/or molecular analysis of bacterial agents.

• Intermediate scientific proficiency in laboratory functions. Possesses the ability to identify issues with laboratory protocols, procedures, and experimental plans.
• Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential.
• Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.
• Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination desirable.
• Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs analysis of bacteriological samples utilizing standard techniques such as plating, Gram staining, colony counting, as well as phenotypic, biochemical, and/or genetic analyses.
• Contributes in matrixed and cross-functional research teams that may include Aerobiology, Virology/Toxinology, and Comparative Medicine (veterinary) staff.
• Possesses the ability to work on multiple science tasks simultaneously, while performing assignments outside of area of expertise.
• Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. 
• Follows established procedures on routine work, requires instruction only on new assignments, and is self-sufficient in monitoring and reporting on quality, and compliance.
• Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC’s ability to serve its customers. 
• Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.
• With minimal supervision, operates, maintains, and characterizes the performance of equipment ensuring the reagents and supplies are maintained and used properly. 
• Serves as a member of a team in developing, validating, and maintaining methods for identifying and characterizing biological threat agents.
• Supports Principal Investigators during the writing of technical reports through review and summary of experimental records, initial processing and QC of raw data, and technical review of methods and data.
• May be appointed as a Lab Space Manager (LSM) and/or Biological Select Agents and Toxins (BSAT) designee.

• Exhibits teamwork, clear communication, openness to ideas, and patience with colleagues.
• Demonstrates the ability to multitask, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks in a complex, high containment environment.
• Is a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintaining flexibility, adapting to change productively, learning new concepts, and using critical thinking to resolve complex technical problems.
• Maintains appropriate records.
• Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.

SECURITY/ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 

• Must be a U.S. citizen, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance and suitability for DHS.
• Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and/or enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required.
• May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work schedule and/or on-call schedule, depending on business needs.

Salary : $56,122 - $92,723