Scientist I - Battlefield Shock and Organ Support

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Scientist I develop and conduct research projects. Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and concepts to potential inventions, products, and problems. Develops new technologies and protocols.

This position will be in support of Battlefield Shock and Organ Support (BSOS) research program located at the Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, MD. BSOS is advancing the future of combat-relevant trauma care through rigorous translational science. Our integrated research portfolio focuses on innovative extremity salvage technologies—including extracorporeal distal revascularization and ex vivo limb perfusion—to preserve viability when evacuation is delayed; organ-support and cardiopulmonary rescue platforms leveraging novel ECMO techniques to sustain life after severe physiologic insult; and rapid infectious-disease diagnostics that enable early, targeted treatment and reduce antimicrobial resistance in austere environments.

In this role, you will contribute to both scientific and programmatic efforts by supporting hands-on bench research—processing tissue and blood samples, coordinating and executing biomarker and multi-omics assays, and assisting with large-animal in vivo studies—while also helping drive grant development and sub-award coordination critical to project success. By translating clinically inspired questions into actionable data, we uncover the mechanisms of ischemia-reperfusion injury, inform next-generation therapeutics and devices, and accelerate innovations that improve survival and restore function for both service members and civilian patients. Motivated researchers who join BSOS will directly contribute to high-impact solutions that protect warfighters and save lives.

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.

Education and Experience

• Doctorate Degree required.
• Minimum of 2-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of applicable complex scientific procedures and techniques.
• Experience with high resolution respirometry (preferred)
• Must have experience with PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis, Western blotting, or histology.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to troubleshoot technical procedures.
• Ability to work independently and supervise others.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 public trust investigation.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods

Work Environment

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

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $73,800-$100,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

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©

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

• Coordinates and monitors scientific and technical activities across the Infectious Disease Toolkit (VIBEX) program, including sample sourcing, assay validation, and prototype development. Ensures accurate tracking, documentation, and delivery of datasets, sample inventories, and milestone reports in alignment with project timelines, regulatory standards, and overall program objectives.
• Collaborates and coordinates on new grant and funding applications, reviewing and enhancing scientific proposals, assembling supporting data, and ensuring consistency across programmatic submissions and project documentation.
• Identifies new funding opportunities and contributes to the development of white papers, progress reports, and manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Conducts limited bench-based activities such as ELISA benchmarking, biomarker validation, and prototype evaluation under established laboratory protocols, maintaining accurate records and contributing to data analysis.
• Serves as a cross-functional liaison between scientific, administrative, and operational teams to ensure effective communication, resource alignment, and adherence to project timelines.
• Performs additional duties as assigned, including participation in program meetings, professional training, and contributions to collaborative research initiatives.