Research Assistant I

Overview Join the HJF Team! 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. HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I 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 position will be in support of the Snow laboratory in the Department of Pharmacology at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in Bethesda, MD. Responsible for initiating and carrying out research projects in collaboration with other laboratories and investigators at USUHS and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

Responsibilities ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES: Assists in processing and analyzing blood and serum samples related to three funded research projects entitled (1) "Genome sequencing, transcriptomics, and variant functional analyses of subjects with inborn errors of immunity and phenocopies in the Military Health System.", and (2) Genetic Analysis of Adverse Vaccine Reactions Study (GVRS), and (3)"Temporal and Metabolic Regulation of Restimulation-Induced Cell Death (RICD) in Human T Cells". Performs independent laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which will involve specialized procedures including: isolation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from human blood by Ficoll gradient centrifugation, human lymphocyte cell culture and stimulation, nucleic acid extraction/purification/transfection, RT-PCR, preparation of whole cell and/or fractionated lysates, Western blotting, flow cytometry, ELISA and other microtiter plate assays, and other techniques as needed/required by the laboratory. Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments.

Processes and interprets experimental data, and prepares accurate and timely research reports. Assists with the preparation of data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals. Assists with maintaining an accurate inventory of laboratory supplies, and places orders for supplies as necessary.

Assists with training laboratory staff as needed. Maintains cleanliness of laboratory areas and performs routine maintenance tasks on laboratory equipment. Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Subject knowledge and expertise in immunology and/or cell biology, as reflected by coursework and/or publications in appropriate peer-reviewed scientific journals. Preference for those with experience studying human lymphocyte responses, including flow cytometric-based assays. Competence in all routine areas of modern cellular and molecular biology including mammalian cell culture, recombinant DNA technology, and immunoblotting.

Work Environment Laboratory environment; working with biohazardous materials and human blood products; may require working evenings and weekends Long periods of standing and sitting; intricate work with hands; carrying of light and moderately heavy laboratory equipment Education and Experience Bachelor's Degree Minimum of 0-2 years experience required Supervisory Responsibilities/Controls May provide guidance to students and laboratory staff Clearance/Background Requirement Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 and/or CAC Public Trust Some HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required. 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.