Research Associate – Genomics/NGS (NCI)
The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) is part of Leidos Biomedical Research's Clinical Research Directorate (CRD) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. The MoCha Laboratory is responsible for providing high-level research in support of the NCI-Cancer Diagnostics Program (CDP) within the Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (DCTD). MoCha is charged with the development and application of genomic assays for use in medical research and diagnostics for DCTD-sponsored national extramural clinical trials.
KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES
Research Associate I or II – Genomics/NGS
– Performs genomics research and/or assay development in collaboration with others for projects
– Makes detailed observations, analyzes data and interprets results
– Investigates, creates and develops new methods and technologies for project advancement
– Maintains high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature
– May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals
– May be responsible for identifying patentable inventions
– May act as principal investigator in conducting own experiments
– Exercises independent judgment in developing and/or modifying methods and techniques for solving scientific problems
– Performs molecular assays by adherence to SOPs
– Develops new assays and applies the methods/assays utilizing sound scientific judgement
– Writes SOPs and performs formal reporting of research data, including presentations and/or scientific publications
– Maintains knowledge of the most recent literature and scientific presentations relevant to projects
– Maintains essential laboratory supplies and monitors equipment for optimum performance
Requirements:
Qualifications:
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:
This is a dual level requisition. It may be filled at either a Research Associate I or Research Associate II level.
For a Research Associate I:
– Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
– In addition to the educational requirements, a minimum of two (2) years of experience with next generation sequencing library creation and sequencing, molecular assay development
For a Research Associate II:
– Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
– In addition to the educational requirements, a minimum of five (5) years of experience with next generation sequencing library creation and sequencing, molecular assay development
For all levels:
– Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:
– Experience in NGS genomic profiling assays (i.e. whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing), digital PCR, nanostring, microarray
– Experience in genomic assay development and workflow automation
– Familiarity with clinical oncology studies and other protocol-driven clinical research
Expected Competencies:
– Proficient with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
– Strong technical skills in molecular biological and genomic assays
– Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests, develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data
– Ability to track information in a large cohort of samples and monitor progress of multiple projects
– Adequate computer skills to document, organize, and present experimental data
– Strong critical thinking and problem solving skills
– Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
Leidos Overview:
Leidos is a global science and technology solutions leader working to solve the world's toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. The company's 33,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Leidos reported pro forma annual revenues of approximately $10 billion for the fiscal year ended January 1, 2016 after giving effect to the recently completed combination of Leidos with Lockheed Martin's Information Systems & Global Solutions business (IS&GS). For more information, visit www.Leidos.com. The company's diverse employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Leidos will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories for employment in accordance with relevant Laws. Leidos is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
