Assistant Scientist

MRI Global • Kansas City, MO

11h • Onsite

About The Position

MRIGlobal is seeking a highly motivated individual to join our Integrated Health Surveillance & Diagnostics (IHSD) Business Unit as an Assistant Scientist within our Research & Development team in Kansas City. This on‑site role supports programs that advance diagnostic capabilities, bio surveillance, and global health preparedness through molecular and immunological assay development, diagnostic system support, and other laboratory operations. Our Kansas City team conducts research, development, and diagnostic testing in CAP/CLIA‑certified laboratories, specializing in molecular biology, assay development, and research on infectious diseases and emerging threats. Principal Accountabilities and Success Factors The Assistant Scientist will provide hands‑on technical support for research, development, and diagnostic testing activities within the IHSD‑R&D‑KC team, including work performed in CAP/CLIA‑certified laboratory environments. The role requires foundational experience in molecular biology, biological assays, assay development workflows, and general laboratory operations supporting efforts to address infectious diseases and emerging biological threats. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong attention to detail, adherence to established protocols, willingness to learn, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
Duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Perform routine laboratory testing and experimental activities under general supervision, following established protocols, project‑specific procedures, and SOPs. Conduct technical tasks and laboratory experimentation to support assay development, diagnostic evaluation, and applied research efforts. Execute experimental workflows, maintain accurate and timely documentation, and contribute to reliable, reproducible data generation. Support laboratory maintenance activities, including equipment upkeep, routine cleaning, inventory management, and updating safety documentation. Identify and communicate laboratory challenges or procedural issues to senior staff to support continuous improvement. Contribute to data organization and preliminary data summaries for inclusion in internal reports and scientific discussions. Collaborate with project teams by completing assigned tasks on schedule and supporting the timely delivery of program and client objectives.

Requirements

• B.S. or B.A. in Biochemistry, Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or related discipline
• Proficient oral and written communication skills
• Knowledge and/or experience in a research environment, basic analytical skills, sample preparation and analysis, experience with bioanalytical methods, e.g. real-time PCR, immunological analysis, next generation sequencing
• PC skills and ability to learn new software and systems
• Ability to effectively communicate and interact with technical staff at all levels in a team-based environment
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to maintain laboratory notebook and prepare raw data for submission to technical lead
• Adept time management skills, ability to work under pressure, multitask, and be flexible
• Applicants MUST be U.S. Citizens and eligible to obtain a Department of Defense Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine laboratory testing and experimental activities under general supervision, following established protocols, project‑specific procedures, and SOPs.
• Conduct technical tasks and laboratory experimentation to support assay development, diagnostic evaluation, and applied research efforts.
• Execute experimental workflows, maintain accurate and timely documentation, and contribute to reliable, reproducible data generation.
• Support laboratory maintenance activities, including equipment upkeep, routine cleaning, inventory management, and updating safety documentation.
• Identify and communicate laboratory challenges or procedural issues to senior staff to support continuous improvement.
• Contribute to data organization and preliminary data summaries for inclusion in internal reports and scientific discussions.
• Collaborate with project teams by completing assigned tasks on schedule and supporting the timely delivery of program and client objectives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level