Biologist (51819)

GAP SOLUTIONS INC; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

GAP SOLUTIONS INC is seeking an experienced Biologist for their NIH division. This full-time role based in Bethesda includes responsibilities such as performing lab procedures, molecular HLA typing, and data analysis for the Department of Transfusion Medicine.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's Degree in Genetics or Microbiology and expertise in DNA extraction and laboratory methods. Strong organizational skills and effective communication abilities are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Genetics, Microbiology, or a similar field required.
• Eligible for American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics certification.
• Experience with the MS Office Suite is required.

Responsibilities

• Perform work in the DTM HLA Laboratory, including specimen processing and DNA extraction.
• Utilize molecular HLA typing methods including PCR and next generation sequencing.
• Support HLA staff by communicating with transplant groups and managing documentation.
• Engage in research projects to explore clinical applications within the lab.

Skills

Molecular HLA typing

DNA extraction

Laboratory procedures

Data analysis

Quality assurance

Education

Master’s Degree in Genetics, Microbiology, or similar field

Tools

MS Office Suite

Job description

Job Details: Level: Experienced | Location: National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Main Campus/Bethesda – Bethesda, MD 20892 | Position Type: Full Time | Education Level: Masters Degree | Salary Range: $75,000.00 - $135,000.00 | Travel Percentage: None | Job Shift: Day | Job Category: Public Health | Position Objective: The Biologist will independently provide support services to satisfy the overall operational objectives of the NIH Clinical Center, Department of Transfusion Medicine, Human Leukocyte Antigen Laboratory within the National Institutes of Health.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform work in the DTM HLA Laboratory, including major laboratory procedures such as specimen processing, DNA extraction and quantitation utilizing manual and automated methods.
• Molecular HLA typing utilizing PCR, sequence specific primer (SSP), sequence specific oligonucleotide (SSO), and sequence based typing (SBT).
• Molecular HLA typing utilizing next generation sequencing.
• Next generation sequencing data analysis.
• Agarose preparation and gel electrophoresis; photo‑documentation of results.
• Interpretation of all HLA typing results.
• Support the general HLA staff in communication with transplant groups and appropriate documentation.
• Perform troubleshooting on current HLA analysis software and database management systems.
• Perform various HLA antibody screening and identification methods and interpret results.
• Work with staff on identification of unusual HLA antibody and typing patterns; maintain leadership and support role to encourage staff to understand complexities.
• Perform final review analysis process and determine any discrepancies requiring resolution.
• Participate in review and audit of laboratory records and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the laboratory.
• Participate in review of QC and quality assurance records to maintain accreditation levels.
• Maintain documentation related to maintenance and monitoring of quality assurance practices.
• Provide a leadership role in implementing changes upon request.
• Work with staff on test assay development, validation, and implementation of new equipment and reagents in the sequencing area to achieve high-throughput testing.
• Collaborate on evaluation of new reagents or assays for antibody detection that may benefit the laboratory.
• Perform validation and recording of specimens in all appropriate software‑based applications.
• Apply troubleshooting skills in laboratory software applications and instrumentation.
• Monitor quality assurance practices across laboratory work.
• Coordinate the teaching process of fellows, students, and staff regarding new procedures and techniques.
• Engage in research projects to document potential clinical applications within the laboratory.

Basic Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Genetics, Microbiology, or similar field of study.
• American Board of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics certification eligible.
• Experience with MS Office Suite.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with non-technical and technical staff.
• Detail-oriented and possess strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize multiple tasks and projects.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position is contingent upon contract award.