Molecular Research Technician

*** An active Public Trust or the ability to obtain a Public Trust is required for consideration. ***

The Molecular Research Technician I will assist in performing molecular biology experiments, including nucleic acid isolation and next-generation sequencing, to characterize multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). The role involves working under the supervision of a principal investigator or lab manager, maintaining laboratory safety, and ensuring accurate record-keeping of all procedures and results.

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Molecular Research Technician I: $55k- $60k. Pay commensurate with experience. Full-time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

• Serve as a laboratory technician working under the supervision of a principal investigator (Research/Clinical Scientist) or laboratory manager/supervisor from the same company in performing laboratory procedures and experiments as required for the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of MDRO
• Conduct molecular biology experiments with precision according to protocols, including but not limited to nucleic acid isolation, bacterial work, and next-generation sequencing with limited supervision
• Implement research protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) as well as follow oral instructions for the molecular laboratory
• Provide data and results to the lead molecular research technician and/or laboratory manager/supervisor from the same company on time
• Coordinate with senior molecular research technicians from the same company on all pertinent issues related to the operation of the molecular laboratory
• Perform experimental work, including serological assays, chemical assays, genetic and molecular biology procedures, and growth of solid and liquid cultures
• Perform routine laboratory duties required for the smooth and safe operation of the laboratory such as maintaining a supply of clean glassware, properly disposing of hazardous biological and chemical waste, preparing reagents, and maintaining an inventory of laboratory chemicals
• Maintain a laboratory notebook in which accurate and complete records of laboratory work is maintained in accordance with accepted standards
• Comply with occupational health and safety standards and other applicable regulations and guidelines which may include medical surveillance
• Attend relevant seminars, scientific conferences and meetings to the MRSN
• Demonstrate knowledge of WRAIR and MRSN operational and regulatory standards
• Perform other job‑related duties as assigned

• AS or BS in Biology, Molecular Biology, or Microbiology
• Proficiency with whole genome sequencing of bacterial samples
• Foundational-level experience in the extraction of bacterial DNA and in the construction of DNA sequencing libraries.
• Foundational-level experience in the operation and maintenance of next‑generation sequencing platforms, including instruments from Illumina and Oxford Nanopore
• Foundational-level experience in the operation and maintenance of liquid handlers, including but not limited to Hamilton liquid handlers
• Foundational-level experience with performing and interpreting real‑time PCR data from bacterial samples
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment using critical thinking skills, adaptability and decisive judgment with minimal supervision
• Excellent organization and communication skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrate interpersonal skills, teamwork and ability to collaborate with multiple groups of people
• Ability to overhead lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to perform work that requires frequent standing, walking, lifting, grasping and repetitive motion
• Occasional stooping, squatting, pushing, pulling, climbing, and overhead lifting
• Perform occasional duties on weekends if such duties are approved by both the COR and the contractor's program manager.

• 1-3 years of experience in molecular biology outside of an academic setting
• 1-3 years of experience with next-generation…