Research Assistant I - PHA-AFRRI

Join the HJF Team!

The Henry M Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. 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 is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

This position will be in support of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS). This role is designed for a candidate with a strong foundation in laboratory research and a passion for scientific writing. The incumbent will work closely with a Principal Investigator to design studies, contribute to protocol development, execute complex experiments, perform data analysis and transform raw data into high-impact, peer-reviewed publications.

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. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• In Vivo Research: Assist with laboratory research projects utilizing both small animal (rodents) and large animal (NHP) models, including handling, specialized blood/tissue collection, biochemical assays, making detailed observations about experiments, and provide data analysis and interpretation.
• Laboratory Excellence: Conduct complex assays (e.g., ELISA, Luminex, Microscopy) while maintaining meticulous laboratory records and logbooks in accordance with Good Laboratory Practices, follows instructions and standard operating procedures, maintains supplies in the laboratory and ensures proper cleanliness and sanitation. Responsible for assuring that data for statistical analyses and output are complete and accurate, ensuring conclusions are valid.
• Advanced Data Analysis: Perform sophisticated data analysis and inference using software, statistical applications, and programs such as SPSS, GraphPad Prism, and MATLAB to ensure reproducible and valid scientific conclusions.
• Scientific Writing & Publication: Contribute significantly to the development of research protocols, technical reports, summaries, and scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals. Creates and communicates detailed observations on experiments.
• Collaboration: Work alongside senior professional staff and peers to develop quality project protocols, data analysis summaries, research summary reports, presentations, annual reports, scientific research related materials and manuscript.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree required, preferably in the Biological Sciences
• Minimum of 0-2 years of hands-on laboratory experience required
• Prior experience in handling small animals/rodents and supporting pre- clinical research desired. NHP experience preferred, not required

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of standard laboratory techniques and assays such as Luminex, ELISA, and microscopy..
• Ability to follow detailed instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Experience with statistical, graphing, and other relevant software applications (SPSS, GraphPad Prism, SIGMAPLOT, MS Office, EndNote, MATLAB, etc.) in statistical analysis, data science, and bioinformatics applications
• Ability in scientific writing, including the ability to draft summaries and contribute to manuscript sections.
• Good communication and analytical skills are required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain and the T1 public trust background investigation.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials over 25 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit for prolonged periods
• Ability to wear an N95 respirator

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting including some work in an animal facility
• HepB, Tdap, MMR immunizations and a negative TB test are required to work inside the animal facility
• Occasional weekend or evening hours will be required.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$24.00. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.