Research Assistant I - Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I - Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

This role serves as a Research Assistant I in the Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, to support the Day laboratory in the Department of Pharmacology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, MD and would be responsible for initiating and carrying out research projects in collaboration with a research team.

The lab is working to investigate the time course and mechanism of radiation-induced alterations to red blood cells. The work will include care of mice, analysis of blood samples, and analysis of serum samples.

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.

• Major responsibilities conducting basic biochemical experiments to investigate the effects of radiation on cells and/or tissues, assisting with animal experiments, assisting with general laboratory maintenance, and written and electronic documentation of experiments.
• The incumbent will assist senior members of the laboratory in performing small and large animal experiments. The incumbent will assist in the analysis of animal tissues exposed to radiation. The incumbent will use such techniques as immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, western blotting, and other biochemical assays.
• The incumbent will also participate in the development of new methods and techniques to enhance the reliability of research results or to accommodate experimental conditions.
• Keeping detailed written and electronic logbooks of all animal checks and experiments that are performed. The incumbent maintains detailed and organized records of experimental procedures and observations for the studies.
• Serves as a member of a research team and collaborates in execution of experimental procedures, conducts literature searches, assists in planning research protocols, and in preparing reports of investigations for IACUC reports, grant/funding reports, and for abstracts and manuscripts for publication. The incumbent performs many of the duties of this position with supervision.
• Other responsibilities: Maintains and acquires reagents and expendable materials for operation of the laboratory. Maintains preventive measures in the laboratory, ensuring the cleanliness of the laboratory space used and the proper preventive maintenance, calibration, operation, and quality control of laboratory equipment. Maintains safety records and may assist senior members of the lab in performing routine maintenance of safety equipment (e.g., weekly eyewash station checks, check for correct storage of chemicals and safety data sheets, and correct storage of chemical waste.)

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required, preferably in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Pharmacology, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques.
• Experience with use of personal computers for manuscript preparation and data analysis is essential. Additional training will be provided for advanced animal experimental techniques.
• Subject knowledge in biology, biochemistry, and genetics. Laboratory experience with competence in routine areas of modern cellular and molecular biology.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust Background Check.

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 hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$19.50. Actual hourly pay 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(c)

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