Research Assistant I or II - Pathology (Oncogenesis and Cancer Biology)

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I or II to support the Department of Pathology located at the Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to Pathology Department.

A Research Assistant is being sought to work on the genetic/epigenetic, cellular and molecular mechanisms of human cancer at Department of Pathology of Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland. The goal is to use a viral oncogenesis model system of a rare cancer for deciphering underlying cancer biology that may apply to all cancers. The Research Assistant will perform research activities in collaboration with the laboratory PI and other external academic/clinical entities. The Research Assistant will exercise technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies.

NOTE: All HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

Responsibilities:

Performs complex laboratory tests as well as data collection, data analysis/interpretation with or without statistical estimation and result documentation in laboratory notebooks involving multiple procedures and a variety of cellular and molecular technical approaches.

Develops methods and procedures for experiments and investigations. Maintain all current or new procedures as protocols in the laboratory's standard protocol folder.

Plans, organizes, procures and prepares needed reagents, lab supplies and lab instruments in a timely manner before carrying out experiments/investigations.

Maintain and organize the records, as well as the proper storage of lab reagents, lab supplies, cell lines and other laboratory's biological or chemical materials.

Writes experiment results and assists laboratory PI for publications in technical and peer-reviewed journals.

May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

A bachelor in the field of cellular and molecular biology with excellent skills in basic cellular and molecular biology techniques (cloning, cell cultures, cell transfections, cell-based assays, PCR, Western blot and working with lab mice, etc.) and critical analytical thinking ability are required.

Prior experiences in cancer biology and/or stem cell biology with at least one first author publication is highly desirable.

Prior experience in NGS and experience or interest in bioinformatics are also desirable, but not required.

Strong work ethics with ability to meet deadlines, a genuine interest in basic biomedical research and academic integrity with attention to details, good organizational and communication skills with courteous/collegial attitude are essential.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred.

Minimum Experience/ Training Requirements:

• Level 1: Bachelors and 0-2 years of experience.
• Level 2: Bachelors and 3-5 years of experience.

Work Environment: This position takes place in a laboratory setting.

Work Arrangement: 100% in-person.

Background/Security: Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Tier I investigation/Public Trust and a Common Access Card (CAC).

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, addresses, education, and credentials, a criminal background check, drug screening, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check.

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