Associate Research Scientist; PREP

Overview

Salary: $95,000-$115,000 a year

Assay development for cell-free expression systems

PREP Research Associate

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. PREP supports collaboration with researchers at academic institutions and provides staff to work on scientific research in related projects. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Supports the Cellular Engineering Group and NIST Engineering Biology Program by advancing measurement assurance for cell-free systems from diverse samples, including reconstituted and microbial samples. Leads the development of a suite of characterization assays for cell-free systems. Provides guidance for and assists in the automation of reagent preparation, cell-free reaction assembly, and, for using NIST Living Measurement Systems Foundry (LMSF) or other laboratory automation.

Leads the design of experiments and performs the analysis of experimental and simulation data, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses. Documents and manages manual and automated laboratory protocols, data, and analyses. Regularly presents and discusses progress with the larger organization. Represents NIST at national and international meetings to engage with stakeholders. Leads and contributes to the preparation of technical protocols, reports, and manuscripts detailing methods and results to translate measurement capabilities to stakeholders.

The work will entail:

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Participating in horizon scanning exercises for strategic planning of the technical program.
• Project planning and overseeing the execution of projects, in consultation with the larger organization.
• Developing assays to characterize the performance of cell-free reactions.
• Investigating experimental and analytical means to support measurement assurance for cell-free systems.
• Assisting with the automation of methods for preparation of cell-free lysates, cell-free reagents, cell-free reaction assembly, and assaying cell-free systems and their performance.
• Analyzing heterogeneous data sources, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses.

Presenting results at internal meetings, as well as meetings with external stakeholders.

Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.

A Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering, bioengineering, cell biology, chemistry, physics, synthetic biology, or a related field.

5 years of relevant experience.

Strong oral and written communication skills.

Please upload the following with your application:

• CV/Resume
• Please limit C.V to 3 pages only and ONLY include a valid email address for your contact info. Your resume will not be considered if the following information is included on your CV/resume.
• Self portraits
• Phone number
• Home address/Country
• Citizenship status
• Languages spoken
• Sex/Gender
• Privacy Act Statement

Authority: 15 U.S.C. § 278g-1(e)(1) and (e)(3) and 15 U.S.C. § 272(b) and (c)

Purpose: The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) hosts the PREP program designed to provide valuable laboratory experience and financial assistance to participants.

Routine Uses: NIST will use the information collected to perform reviews of the applications to determine eligibility, and to meet programmatic requirements. Disclosure of this information is subject to the Privacy Act System of Records Notices: NIST-1: NIST Associates.

Disclosure: Furnishing this information is voluntary. By submitting the form, you consent to NIST using the information for the stated purpose.