Senior Research Associate, Bacteriology & Bioforensics

Battelle National Biodefense Institute, LLC; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

NBACC, located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD, seeks highly skilled scientific staff to perform bacteriological analyses and develop methods to identify biological threat agents. This role involves collaboration within a high-containment setting and requires strong analytical abilities and attention to safety.

Responsibilities include protocol development, QA maintenance, and mentoring team members while supporting multiple projects in a dynamic biodefense environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in a scientific discipline with 6+ years of related experience or Master’s with 4+ years.
• Equivalent education, training, and experience will be considered.
• Experience with phenotypic, biochemical, and/or molecular analysis of bacterial agents.
• Knowledge of biosafety, biosecurity, and decontamination is desirable.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; works well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Analyze bacteriological samples using standard techniques (plating, Gram staining, colony counting).
• Develop, validate, and maintain methods to identify biological threat agents.
• Provide technical support to multiple bacteriology projects concurrently.
• Assist in drafting protocols, SOPs, and project deliverables with minimal supervision.
• Mentor staff on bacterial procedures and SOPs; coordinate day-to-day logistics as needed.
• Test and evaluate new technologies and protocols to improve NBACC capabilities.
• Maintain thorough records and ensure QA/QMS compliance.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment and reagents per SOPs.

Skills

Bacteriology methods

Laboratory troubleshooting

Teamwork and communication

Biocontainment familiarity

Education

B.S. in a scientific discipline

M.S. with related experience

Tools

PCR assays

ELISA assays

Job description

NBACC, located at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD, seeks highly skilled scientific staff to perform bacteriological analyses and develop methods to identify biological threat agents. This role involves collaboration within a high-containment setting and requires strong analytical abilities and attention to safety.

Responsibilities include protocol development, QA maintenance, and mentoring team members while supporting multiple projects in a dynamic biodefense environment.