Microbiologist II

Microbiologist II – ASRT, Inc.

ASRT, Inc. provides scientific, information management, bioinformatics, and administrative support to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This full‑time position will be assigned to the Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases (MVPDB), National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) at the CDC, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA. The successful candidate will provide technical support for molecular and serological diagnosis of pertussis and diphtheria.

• Perform laboratory technical support for real‑time PCR, DNA sequencing, genome‑based typing systems, and serologic assays, including ELISAs, Luminex bead‑based assays, western blots, and other immunologic tests.
• Collaborate on development and validation of novel diagnostic and molecular typing techniques for Bordetella and Corynebacterium species.
• Assist in data analysis and specimen management for the PDL team.
• Execute assays during pertussis and diphtheria outbreak responses or special requests.
• Support laboratory diagnosis and validation of diagnostic tests during outbreak responses, employing genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics techniques.
• Maintain laboratory protocols, conduct microbiological, serological, antibiotic resistance, and molecular biology procedures to support research programs.
• Perform domestic and international laboratory training for surveillance and clinical validation of tests.
• Manage inventory, order, and distribute proficiency testing panels.
• Ensure compliance with Laboratory Safety procedures, Quality Management System (QMS), and Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) regulations.
• Accession, maintain, and manage database of clinical and non‑clinical specimens for vaccine and diagnostics studies.
• Optimize in‑vitro assays to measure biological responses to vaccination and infection.
• Maintain eukaryotic cell cultures, prepare cell banks, and manage cell lines.
• Coordinate special projects within the branch and participate in collaborative studies, training, and QC/QA programs.
• Serve as liaison between CDC and laboratory supply companies to verify receipt of equipment and consumables.
• Prepare service contract documents and review laboratory supplies for the meningitis and pertussis team.
• Conduct bacterial culture, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular typing (DNA sequencing, pulsed‑field gel electrophoresis).
• Design experiments, develop new assays, and troubleshoot laboratory procedures.
• Interpret data using bioinformatics software commonly used in the Meningitis Laboratory.
• Provide laboratory analyses to support epidemiologic responses and CDC emergency operations center activities.

• Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, biology, chemistry, or basic medical science with at least 20 semester hours in microbiology and 20 semester hours in organic chemistry, biochemistry, physics, or college algebra.
• Research experience with molecular and immunological methods (nucleic acid sample preparation, real‑time PCR, ELISA, and standard laboratory techniques).
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Experience documenting daily work with Good Laboratory Practice.
• Knowledge of biosafety requirements for research.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong interpersonal skills for teamwork and interaction with CDC personnel and external partners.

• Experience developing real‑time PCR or ELISA‑based in‑vitro diagnostic assays.
• Experience writing project reports, research protocols, and manuscripts.
• Ability to generate innovative ideas for project research.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

• Must be a United States citizen, permanent resident, or have appropriate authorization for employment in the United States.

Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

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ASRT, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Visa sponsorship may be available for qualified candidates.