BioWatch Scientist - Real-Time Biosecurity Lead

ASRT, Inc.; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ASRT, Inc. is seeking a BioWatch Scientist to provide technical expertise to CDC and DHS program leadership, BioWatch jurisdictions, and laboratories. The position is full-time and located at the CDC site in Atlanta, GA.

The successful candidate will manage daily activities, validate BioWatch products, analyze real-time PCR data, and participate in development of future BioWatch detection technologies. On-call support and collaboration with LRN program are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in microbiology, biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, medical sciences, or closely related field.
• Three years supporting BioWatch or similar public health program.
• Two years providing scientific leadership or supervising laboratory personnel.
• Proficiency in real-time PCR, nucleic acid extraction, and data interpretation.
• Experience designing and overseeing studies to evaluate lab methods and detection technologies.
• Experience developing SOPs and maintaining laboratory quality and biosafety practices.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects and communicate with government stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Provide subject matter expertise to CDC and DHS program leadership and BioWatch jurisdictions and laboratories.
• Maintain and validate quality of BioWatch products, procedures, and protocols.
• Monitor for accuracy and report daily laboratory results from database submissions.
• Analyze and interpret data from real-time PCR testing; troubleshoot sample analysis issues.
• Monitor program-wide communications with BioWatch laboratories and stakeholders to identify issues and propose solutions.
• Provide 24/7 on-call support for technical laboratory consultation and emergency response as required.
• Validate new lots of LRN reagents utilized in BioWatch program.
• Develop and evaluate future BioWatch detection technology.
• Provide training for new BioWatch laboratories as needed.
• Investigate and evaluate the effectiveness of new and improved LRN assays used within BioWatch Program.
• Provide guidance to LRN program for customizing LRN assays used by BioWatch.
• Design and execute comprehensive R&D studies to assess and improve BioWatch technologies.
• Investigate environmental samples to characterize background diversity using new technologies.
• Collaborate with LRN program to improve data management for BioWatch results.
• Provide on-site laboratory support to BioWatch jurisdiction as requested through DHS.
• Participate in planning for National Special Security Events as requested by DHS.
• Conduct general laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance and inspection readiness.

Skills

Real-time PCR

Nucleic Acid Extraction

Molecular Assay Development

Data Interpretation

Troubleshooting

Study Design

SOP Development

Lab Leadership

Communication with Stakeholders

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Microbiology/Related Field

Tools

PCR Equipment

Job description

ASRT, Inc. is seeking a BioWatch Scientist to provide technical expertise to CDC and DHS program leadership, BioWatch jurisdictions, and laboratories. The position is full-time and located at the CDC site in Atlanta, GA.

The successful candidate will manage daily activities, validate BioWatch products, analyze real-time PCR data, and participate in development of future BioWatch detection technologies. On-call support and collaboration with LRN program are required.