Assistant Scientist

MRIGlobal•Gaithersburg, MD

1d•$61,000 - $68,000•Onsite

About The Position

MRIGlobal is seeking an entry-level scientist for its Integrated Health, Surveillance, and Diagnostics group at its laboratory in Gaithersburg, Maryland. The role provides experience in research and development, sample preparation and analysis, and relevant federal regulations, quality assurance, safety procedures, standard operating procedures, and instrumentation. Under general supervision, the Assistant Scientist performs technical tasks and laboratory experiments in microbiology and molecular biology using established or project-specific protocols and SOPs. The position contributes to research project procedures, experimental planning, and data analysis. Typical methods include culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR techniques, and immunoassay analysis. The employee is expected to become proficient with equipment and procedures in assigned areas and to follow quality control and quality assurance requirements.

Requirements

B.S. or B.A. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
Knowledge and/or experience in a research environment, basic analytical skills, sample preparation and analysis, and bioanalytical methods such as real-time PCR, immunological analysis, or next-generation sequencing (Illumina and ONT MinION).
PC skills and ability to learn new software and systems.
Ability to communicate and interact effectively with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment.
Ability to work independently.
Attention to detail.
Time-management skills and ability to work under pressure, multitask, and be flexible.
Proficient oral and written communication skills.
Ability to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.
U.S. citizenship is required to meet government security investigation requirements for access to classified information.

Responsibilities

Conduct technical tasks and laboratory experimentation under general supervision using established or project-specific protocols and SOPs.
Perform project experimental work according to established protocols and procedures.
Contribute to the development of test plans, experimental designs, and analytical methods.
Contribute to research project procedures and data analysis.
Perform laboratory methods such as culturing, nucleic acid extraction, PCR techniques, and immunoassay analysis.
Become proficient in the equipment and procedures for assigned areas and adhere to quality control and quality assurance assessments.
Maintain a laboratory notebook and prepare raw data for submission to a supervisor.