Research Scientist for Cell-free Expression System Metrology

National Institute of Standards and Technology; Gaithersburg, Northern (MD, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, MD, seeks a Research Scientist for Cell-free Expression System Metrology to lead projects that develop measurement assurance for cell-free systems, including reconstituted and microbial samples. The role develops characterization assays and automates reagent preparation, reaction assembly, and data analyses.

The associate researcher position emphasizes collaboration within the Cellular Engineering Group and NIST

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of cell biology and cell-free expression systems.
• Demonstrated leadership and management of technical projects.
• 5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Leads, plans, and carries out difficult and complex assignments in cell-free expression systems with limited supervision.
• Develops new methods, approaches, and procedures in cooperation with coworkers or advisors.
• Completed work has a sound overall approach and effectively meets requirements.
• Communicates effectively with peers and stakeholders to plan share work outputs.

Skills

Cell-free expression

Molecular biology

Leadership

Data analysis

Experiment design

Education

Doctoral degree in chemical engineering or related field

Tools

Laboratory automation

Statistical analysis software (R, Python)

Job description

Research Scientist for Cell-free Expression System Metrology

The Material Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is seeking qualified candidates (U.S. citizens preferred) to support the Cellular Engineering Group and NIST Engineering Biology Program , by leading projects to develop measurement assurance for cell-free expression systems from diverse samples, including reconstituted and microbial samples. Leads the development of characterization assays for cellfree systems. Assists automating reagent preparation, cell-free reaction assembly, and characterization, using the NIST Living Measurement Systems Foundry (LMSF) and other laboratory automation. Analyzes experimental and simulation data, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses. Documents and manages protocols, data, and analyses. Regularly presents and discusses progress with the larger organization.

Duties

• Leads, plans, and carries out difficult and complex assignments in cell-free expression systems with limited supervision.
• Develops new methods, approaches, and procedures in cooperation with coworkers or advisors.
• Completed work has a sound overall approach and effectively meets requirements.
• Communicates effectively with peers and stakeholders to plan share work outputs.

Required Skills, Expertise, and Qualifications

• A Doctoral degree in chemical engineering, bioengineering, cell biology, chemistry, physics, synthetic biology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, microbial culture, reconstituted and lysate-based cell-free expression systems, and synthetic/engineering biology.
• Demonstrated leadership and management of technical projects and programs.
• 5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.

Employment Terms

This opportunity is to be an associate researcher in the NIST for a term of 1 year, with options to renew. Associate researchers are NOT Federal Employees, but work aside NIST researchers and with NIST’s world-class instrumentation. Relocation expenses will not be provided. U.S. citizens hired into associate positions may have the opportunity to seek longer term Federal Employment.