Research Scientist II

Applications to be submitted by July 15, 2024 Compensation Grade: P22 Compensation Details: Minimum: $78,554.00

• Maximum: $78,554.00 Annually Department (OPH) WADS - Wadsworth Center About Health Research, Inc. Health Research, Inc. (HRI) contributes to the health and well-being of the people of New York State by complementing and enabling the strategic public health goals of the New York State Department of Health (DOH), Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (RPCCC), and other health-related entities. HRI provides best-in-class resource administration for stakeholders and programs related to the work and priorities of the Department of Health and its other partners.
  
  HRI does this through the provision of knowledge, expertise, funding guidance, and fiduciary oversight of sponsored program funding for public health and research programs in concert with community partnerships. Health Research, Inc. (HRI) offers a robust, comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, including: Health, dental and vision insurance

• Several comprehensive health insurance plans to choose from; Flexible benefit accounts

• Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking and transit; Generous paid time off

• Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation and personal leave; Tuition support

• Assistance is available for individuals pursuing educational or training opportunities; Retirement Benefits

• HRI is a participating employer in the New York State and Local Retirement System and offers optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan. HRI provides a postretirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses; Employee Assistance Program

• Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally; And so much more! Job Description:
  
  Responsibilities Health Research, Inc. is seeking a Research Scientist II to work within the Wadsworth Center's Laboratory of Viral Diseases. Wastewater testing is a relatively new and rapidly expanding surveillance method extensively used for SARS-CoV-2 and other critical pathogens. The incumbent will become a member of the largest state public health Virology laboratory team in the US and will participate in the largest state wastewater surveillance program in the country.
  
  High-quality testing of wastewater extracts will be critical to the successful performance of all downstream laboratories and outcomes. The incumbent will also perform research and development on methods for the processing and extraction of wastewater, as well as conduct research on improvements and optimization of quality control and quality assurance methods and procedures. They will also coordinate with data analysts regarding pipelines for data transfer and data visualizations.
  
  This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center's mission in the New York State Department of Health's efforts to protect and promote the health of New York's citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health! Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of research experience; or a Master's degree in a related field and two years of research experience; or a Doctorate in a related field.
  
  Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a biological/biomedical science. At least three years of experience performing molecular methods, including at least one year handling infectious agents. Experience working in a molecular biology laboratory performing and validating real-time or digital PCR assays.
  
  Experience working with collaborators. Demonstrated experience using Microsoft Office software, including database management. Conditions of Employment Grant funded position.
  
  Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables, is required. This position requires that the incumbent will report to the official work location and live within commuting distance to the official work location. Telecommuting will not be available.
  
  Travel, up to 25% of the time, will be required. Exposure to potentially hazardous substances may be involved with this position. Therefore, the incumbent in this position may be required to wear personal protective clothing and equipment including but not limited to a gloves, shoe coverings, and a lab coat.
  
  HRI participates in the E-Verify Program. HRI has a long-standing dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workforce. HRI is committed to the principle of non-discrimination in all phases of its employment procedures and practices.
  
  Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Qualified Individuals with Disabilities/Qualified Protected Veterans www.healthresearch.org As the Executive Director of Health Research, Inc. (HRI), I would like to welcome you to HRI's career page. HRI's mission is to build a healthier future for New York State and beyond through the delivery of funding and program support to further public health and research programs in support of the New York State Department of Health, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and other entities. This achievement is made possible through the recruitment of highly talented and qualified individuals.
  
  As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer, we at HRI pride ourselves on our longstanding dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workforce. This commitment is reflected in our equal opportunity employment policy: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
  
  HRI embraces and values all dimensions of diversity, equity, and inclusion in order to make HRI a welcoming environment and to best serve the needs of the various public health and research programs throughout New York State. HRI is committed to fostering a diverse pool of qualified candidates, and we warmly invite you to apply to any open position(s) that interest you.