Research Associate - Undersea Medicine Department

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Associate I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with other scientific and technical staff. Exercises technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments that contribute to project strategies and performs limited analysis and interpretation of results.

This position will be in support of the Navy Medical Research Command, Undersea Medicine Department. The Navy Medical Research Command works with animal models on both basic science protocols and functional testing on human‑similar animal models to further the knowledge base of the United States Department of War in developing new tactics and techniques as well as improving force health protection for the American warfighter.

Undersea Medicine Department specifically works to support military divers and submariners in performing their respective missions.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. HJF serves 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.

• Plans, conducts, and completes investigations under supervision.
• Assists with the writing and editing of experimental results for publication in technical and peer‑reviewed journals.
• Provides technical and operational support to Principal and Assistant Investigators and support staff in all aspects of research planning and execution, not limited to scheduling of experiments and operation of equipment.
• Independently performs laboratory tests, animal procedures and assessments, and analyses using a variety of technical approaches.
• Performs data entry for research projects and maintains databases; assists with the preparation of technical reports, summaries and protocols.
• Maintains records and documentation regarding assigned research.
• Documents current or new procedures or protocols for sample selection, data collection, data processing and/or statistical estimation.
• Collects detailed observations and data for research experiments, enters data correctly, and maintains clear and accurate logbooks and inventory records; verifies, organizes and analyzes data obtained from research experiments.
• Performs small animal husbandry and research tasks, including handling and observing 250‑450‑gram rats and operating small animal hypobaric and hyperbaric research equipment (alternobaric chambers, pressurized piping systems, and pressurized gas cylinders).
• Maintains compliance with established laboratory procedures and safety protocols, including the use and disposal of hazardous materials, chemicals and infectious agents; assists with quality control, troubleshooting and maintenance of specialized reagents and equipment.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor, including attendance of and participation in required training for the role.

• Master’s Degree in a science–related field required.
• Minimum of 0–2 years’ experience required.

• Knowledge of complex laboratory procedures and technical knowledge of scientific disciplines.
• Ability to safely handle and monitor small animals (e.g., rodents) and large animals (e.g., 20–70 kg swine).
• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques and procedures of varying complexity.
• Ability to meet project deadlines.
• Knowledge of safe handling, use and disposal of hazardous materials, chemicals and biological hazards.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Requires obtaining and maintaining a T1/Public Trust background check.

• Lifting: requires lifting materials up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.
• Animal handling, including rodents and swine.
• Handling of chemical reagents.

• Position will take place primarily in a laboratory…