Research Assistant - OUMD

Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment.

This position will be in support of the En Route & Critical Care Department (ECD), within the Operational Undersea Medicine Directorate (OUMD), located at the Naval Medical Research Center (NMRC) in Silver Spring, MD.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike.

• Assists with research projects as directed. Makes intellectual contributions to current research activities and contributes to the design of experiments and new techniques.
• Collect research samples, ensuring integrity of specimens and collection methodology. Analyze samples and interpret results; compile information and results into meaningful formats to ensure content is appropriately represented; maintain detailed records of experimental data and outcomes for analysis.
• Assist with laboratory pre-operative surgical setups and help with surgical procedures involving small and large animals. Assists in animal handling and sedation procedures, preparation of instruments for surgery and assists investigator during experimental surgical and postoperative procedures. Assist with euthanasia and necropsies.
• Emergency, critical and post-operative care procedures including wound management. Provide direct support for monitoring and recovery of anesthetized animals in accordance with established protocol and IACUC guidelines.
• Maintains well organized and detailed surgical records to include peri-operative and post-operative health records as required by animal protocols and IACUC.
• Maintains detailed and accurate laboratory records of techniques, procedures and results for incorporation into research papers. Assists the investigator in conducting literature searches and data analysis inclusion in formal presentations.
• Monitors inventory of laboratory and surgical supplies and orders as needed. Assures laboratory and surgical suites are adequately stocked with reagents and supplies and prepares solutions/medications and test reagents for experiments.
• General lab duties and maintenance in accordance with the joint safety manual, standard operating procedures, and under direction of senior laboratory staff. Includes inventories of chemicals and samples, safety records, and other general lab support duties as assigned. Maintains safe, secure, and healthy work environment by following standards and procedures; complying with legal regulations.
• Present data at laboratory meetings, assist with manuscript drafting for publication and presentation at the discretion of the PI.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific related field required.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

• Handling experience with small and/or large animal models (mice/rats, swine, non-human primates [NHP], etc.).
• Displays ability to assist with all surgical procedures and perform some surgical procedures independently.
• Familiarity with routine blood testing, surgical monitoring, and radiographs.
• Ability to work well with others in a team-oriented/goal-oriented environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively and prepare complete and concise reports.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions; good oral/written communication and analytical skills.
• Knowledgeable with IACUC procedures, AALAS inspections and animal training.
• AALAS Certifications are highly desirable.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.
• US citizenship is required.

• Lifting:
  Requires lifting materials over 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods.