Scientist II - Entomology

HJF is seeking a Scientist II to develop and supervise 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 the One Health Vector Diagnostic Section, Entomology Branch at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) in Silver Spring, MD. This role will support the development of a novel strategy to cultivate Plasmodium falciparum parasites able to sustain high mosquito infections. Incumbent will support all phases of project development, testing and evaluation of new methods, establishment of quality requirements, and implementation of the innovative product.

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.

• Maintain effective technical knowledge, skills and abilities in the following areas: cell and molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, and parasitology and vector-borne diseases of military relevance.
• Maintain cell culture laboratory capabilities to support the in vitro cultivation of cells and/or parasites. The maintenance of cell cultures and parasites might require working during weekends.
• Support traditional and molecular diagnostic capabilities for detection of pathogens (i.e., malaria parasites).
• Plans, executes, and oversees research. Formulates experimental hypotheses and designs experimental protocols.
• Develop, implement, and validate new cultivation protocols using cryopreservation technique.
• Establish quality capabilities for assessment of new products/procedures (i.e., stability and viability testing).
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement novel approaches for culturing of malaria parasites and improve mosquito infections.
• Processes and interprets experimental data. Supports data analysis.
• Prepares written reports and manuscripts for submission to scientific journals.
• Makes scientific observations, maintains detailed workbooks/documentation, and ensures documentation fulfills generally accepted professional/industry standards.
• Collaborates with other technical and professional staff. Attend branch and section meetings.
• 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.

Education and Experience

• Doctoral Degree required.
• Minimum of 5-8 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Broad knowledge of principles, practices, methods including traditional and molecular approaches for detection of pathogens of interest.
• Excellent communication skills (both verbal and written), organization, and productivity including research in high impact peer-reviewed journals in the field of infectious and vector-borne diseases is desirable.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with ability to troubleshoot technical procedures.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with partner labs.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer or laboratory bench for prolonged periods.

Work Environment

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

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $88,600-$107,500. 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.