General Summary
The Associate Scientist is responsible for designing, validating, and performing a broad range of biological and chemical tests and procedures using standard scientific techniques and methods. This role involves recording, analyzing, and reporting results while applying advanced scientific knowledge, laboratory methods, and techniques to solve complex problems. The Associate Scientist will support project work led by senior staff and may provide guidance to junior scientists. Essential duties and responsibilities may vary based on the assigned area, and not all duties will be applicable at all times.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Conducts experimental procedures following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), and study protocols, ensuring compliance with laboratory safety regulations, including Biosafety Level (BSL)-1, BSL-2, and BSL-3 requirements.
- Develops and executes assays, including experiment design for in vitro studies, while ensuring accuracy in micro-pipetting and other laboratory techniques.
- Performs experimental procedures with minimal supervision, exercising judgment in recognizing deviations from expected results and identifying potential sources of variation.
- Collects, analyzes, and interprets data for review by management, utilizing statistical analysis software, spreadsheets, and reporting tools.
- Supports assay development and validation methodologies to improve laboratory testing processes.
- Maintains and passages cell lines, propagates virus strains, and conducts endpoint titrations as required.
- Ensures proper equipment maintenance and participates in inventory management to support laboratory operations.
- Assists with the preparation of reports, proposals, and grant submissions.
- Performs quality control checks on data generated by other individuals to ensure accuracy and integrity.
- Provides training and guidance to junior scientists and technicians to foster skill development and adherence to best practices.
- Participates in all required GLP and select agent training as appropriate.
- Performs routine laboratory cleaning and maintenance tasks to maintain a safe and organized workspace.
- Identifies and provides solutions to laboratory challenges, applying standard procedures and scientific techniques.
- Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Citizenship
- This position requires US citizenship.
Requirements/Minimum Qualifications
- Education & Experience
- Associate of Science (A.S.) degree in Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field and 6 years relevant experience; Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field and 3 years relevant experience; or Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Biochemistry, Biology, or a related field
- Strong knowledge of laboratory methods, data acquisition, and analysis.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Detail-oriented with strong planning and organization Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Ability to work in Biosafety Level-1 (BSL-1), Biosafety Level-2 (BSL-2), and Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) environments under strict safety guidelines.
This position requires the ability to meet all entry requirements, including medical and vaccination requirements for work in both an A/BSL-2 and A/BSL-3 laboratory environment. Immunizations are required for this position and are determined by the study/agent. Some examples include Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Smallpox, Polio, and Influenza.
Core Values
Cultivating human connection - putting people first. We know that every individual makes a difference and that no one can do it alone. We believe the world's most powerful resource is human potential. We are an inclusive and courageous team where innovation and diversity of thought go hand in hand. We understand that relationships move at the speed of trust.
Operating with precise execution - measuring what matters and owning results as a team. We leverage data to drive decisions that advance science. We recognize the importance of a stable foundation coupled with an agile mindset. We hold ourselves accountable and take pride in our work. We give and receive candid feedback as a gift that keeps us growing.
Harnessing relentless curiosity - our unstoppable, innovative force. We are driven to ask sharp questions and push the boundaries of knowledge. We use creativity and critical thinking as catalysts for finding solutions that change lives. We learn by doing, consistently striving to improve our relationships, training, methodologies, questions and results.
Stewarding a healthy community - implementing sustainable operations for a safe, engaging environment. We don't compromise on safety and health for our employees, customers or community. We believe a healthy community begins with inclusive economic opportunities. We respect the dignity of the patients we ultimately serve. We are motivated to serve communities that are underserved and markets that are overlooked.
Job Specific Behaviors
Planning and Organization - Systematically identifies issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self and others to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives
Attention to detail - Utilizes established monitoring system, records data accurately and in a timely manner, and ensures accuracy of data.
Technical Expertise - Possesses and applies professional/technical knowledge, skills, experience, and judgment to accomplish a result, serve customers better, and contribute to the organization's intellectual capital.
Continuous Learning - Target learning needs; seeks learning activities; maximizes learning; applies knowledge or skill; and takes risks in learning.
Communication - Effectively communicates verbally with others and written skills are effective.
Quality Orientation - Follows procedures, ensures high-quality outputs and takes action.
Work Environment & Conditions
- This position is in a laboratory environment and requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Immunizations are required and determined by the study/agent.
- Ability to perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
Physical Demands
- This position is in a laboratory environment and requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Immunizations are required and determined by the study/agent.
- Ability to perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time.
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area.
Certifications, Licenses & Registrations
- No certifications required, but training includes Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and annual safety training on handling biological agents.
- Radiation safety training may be required based on assay use.
- Participation in select agent program training for BSL-3 work.
Southern Research Institute
Mar 21, 2025 