Biobank Assay Specialist

Axle•Bethesda, MD

2d•$70,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

Axle is seeking a Biobank Assay Specialist to join our vibrant team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) located in Bethesda, MD. This role will oversee the operation of the roboticized PhIP-Seq platform, provide biobank backup support for biospecimen processing/aliquoting, and learn to support flow cytometry, ELISA, and Quanterix Simoa assays. The work will be performed on-site in a BSL-2 lab with human biofluids and tissues, involving sample labeling, logging, auditing, processing, running assays, and data delivery.

Requirements

At least 2-4 years of hands-on laboratory experience in biomedical, clinical, or translational research settings
Demonstrated experience working in a BSL-2 laboratory and handling human biofluids and/or tissues
Ability to maintain accurate sample records, logs, audit trails, and QC documentation
Excel
Pipetting
PCR

Nice To Haves

Experience with vacutainers, PCR, NGS library prep and working in CAP- or CLIA-certified labs strongly preferred
MLS/ Medical Technology degree or master's degree or equivalent

Responsibilities

Oversee operation of the roboticized PhIP-Seq platform (60% effort)
Provide biobank backup support for biospecimen processing/aliquoting (20%)
Learn to support flow cytometry, ELISA, and Quanterix Simoa assays (20%)
Sample labeling, logging, auditing, processing, running assays, and data delivery
Perform routine analysis and tests on specimens in the laboratory
Process and organize multiple samples simultaneously
Ensure that all specimens and equipment necessary for experiments are available and in good order
Store new samples, update database, retrieve samples with proper authorization
Provide experimental progress updates on procedures performed in the laboratory
Plans, executes, and arranges laboratory experiments, new techniques and procedures; and performs laboratory techniques relating to scientific research
Perform fundamental procedures required for research projects
Follow established procedures and protocols; utilize aseptic technique to perform experiments
Perform a variety of laboratory techniques and procedures
Perform flow cytometry-based experiments, including cell preparation, cell sorting and molecular analysis of sorted subsets
Operates laboratory machines and instruments; and prepares specimens and equipment for use
Prepare materials and equipment for experiments
Maintain stocked supplies and records of working reagents, including fixatives, buffers, solvents and staining
Work with a variety of routine and specialized laboratory instruments and equipment in the laboratory
Prepare specimens and equipment for use in the laboratory
Perform processing, description and analysis of specimens
Performs sample management and storage
Upkeep sample and database inventory; monitor overall sample inventory
Retrieve, catalog and process samples including but not limited to blood and tumor tissue
Maintain inventory system and sample storage according to outlined guidelines
Perform processing, description and analysis of samples
Analyzes, documents and reports on all procedures performed
Update and maintain written laboratory record of the work
Collect and enter research data into laboratory notebooks and databases
Collect data and prepare for analysis and interpretation
Maintains inventory of laboratory supplies
Ensure that supplies and consumables are ready and on hand as necessary for maximum efficiency in the laboratory
Cleans and sterilizes instruments, glassware and equipment
Perform experiments on samples according to protocols
Perform routine experiments and tests; follow established procedures and protocols
Maintains inventory of laboratory supplies and initiates purchase orders
Monitor and inventory routine laboratory supplies; ensure that supplies are stocked and organized
Manage the laboratory logistics and supply flow by tracking the consumption of laboratory materials
Plan and organize requests for basic and extraordinary laboratory needs for supplies and consumables
Monitor inventory levels and proper storage of materials and supplies in accordance with established policies and procedures
Establish and maintain a record of laboratory supply usage
Inventory laboratory supplies and equipment, make recommendations and prepare purchase requests
Order and maintain laboratory supplies, reagents and equipment
Performs routine equipment maintenance
Monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules
Assist in troubleshooting and calibrating various laboratory equipment and instruments
Coordinate general laboratory maintenance, including equipment upkeep and calibration
Perform calibration, run controls and enter results for various equipment
Monitor and maintain contracts for laboratory equipment and monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedule
Analyzes, documents and reports on all procedures performed and produces detailed reports for use by senior staff
Prepare reports and summaries based on results and findings
Record details of experimental procedures, results and protocols
Performs advanced equipment maintenance
Perform preventive maintenance on laboratory equipment
Trains staff in performing routine laboratory tests and procedures
Provide technical help and expertise to lab members
Provides insights and expertise and recommends new strategies and approaches
Recognize and initiate the investigation into problems with clinical laboratory procedures and equipment