Forensic Scientist III

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc.; Hanover; On-site; USD 50,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Forensic Scientist III to lead DNA analysis efforts in support of military medicine. This pivotal role involves supervising staff, conducting investigative studies, and ensuring quality compliance within a laboratory setting. The successful candidate will leverage their expertise in DNA typing technologies while contributing to critical forensic investigations. Join a dynamic team dedicated to advancing military health through scientific excellence, where your skills will directly impact the mission of identifying human remains and supporting legal processes.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Retirement Plans

Savings Plans

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in biology, chemistry, or forensic science required.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in forensic analysis.

Responsibilities

• Supervise DNA casework and maintain laboratory standards.
• Prepare reports for legal proceedings and assist in quality assurance.

Skills

DNA Typing Technologies

Bioinformatics

Laboratory Automation

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

MS Word

PowerPoint

Excel

Job description

Overview

HJF is seeking a Forensic Scientist III to perform DNA Analyst duties on biological specimens in support of the Defense Health Agency's (DHA) Armed Forces Medical Examiner System (AFMES) at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware. This role involves supervising staff performing investigative studies on tissue identification by DNA typing technologies and carrying out DNA typing casework.

About AFMES

AFMES is a Tri-Service organization comprising administrative S-Staff and three divisions: Forensic Pathology Investigation, DoD DNA Operations, and Forensic Toxicology. Its mission is to provide comprehensive medico-legal services worldwide, including human remains identification, forensic toxicology, medico-legal death investigations, forensic DNA analysis, mass-fatality management, and human reference specimen services.

About HJF

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. Since 1983, HJF has supported military medical research and clinical programs, facilitating scientific progress for military and civilian benefit.

Position Details

This position is contingent on contract award.

Responsibilities

1. May serve as a Supervisory DNA Analyst.
2. Assist in program maintenance and development under supervisor guidance.
3. Testify as an expert witness as required; provide technical support in bioinformatics, IT, and laboratory automation.
4. Participate in educational activities.
5. Set up and operate laboratory instruments and equipment.
6. Write, review, and edit protocols, SOPs, and laboratory documentation.
7. Assist in quality assurance activities, including standards maintenance, equipment calibration, reagent testing, validation, proficiency testing, and accreditation.
8. Conduct inspections and oversee adherence to quality standards.
9. Maintain laboratory cleanliness and stock levels.
10. Perform investigative studies on tissue identification via DNA typing technologies.
11. Document methods development and research activities.
12. Supervise or perform routine nuclear and mtDNA typing casework.
13. Prepare reports suitable for legal proceedings.
14. Review casework and reports.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, forensic science, or physical sciences; graduate coursework in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and statistics/population genetics.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 3-5 years of relevant experience required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of filing, documentation, and software tools (MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Ability to meet project deadlines.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• US Citizenship and ability to obtain/maintain a T3/Secret clearance.

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to sit or stand at a computer for extended periods.

Work Environment

Primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

Annual salary range: $50,100 - $80,900, based on experience and education.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, savings, and retirement plans.

Additional Information

Employment contingent upon background check and other verifications. Qualifications considered as equivalents require prior approval.

Equal Opportunity

HJF is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion.