Biological Scientist

Guidehouse•Rockville, MD

10h•$65,000 - $108,000•Onsite

About The Position

Guidehouse is seeking a Biological Scientist to support advanced molecular, cellular, genomic, and translational research programs for NIH. The role designs, executes, and optimizes laboratory studies using genome engineering, stem cell biology, high-throughput screening, sequencing, imaging, and functional genomics technologies. It is a full-time position located in Rockville, Maryland, with no travel required. The candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD public trust and receive approved adjudication before onboarding. Candidates with an active public trust or suitability are preferred. The scientist performs molecular and cellular research workflows, supports genomic and transcriptomic data generation, coordinates with bioinformatics teams, and contributes to scientific reports, publications, presentations, and grant applications. The role also maintains laboratory resources, instrumentation, procedures, quality records, and documentation; trains laboratory personnel; and provides expertise to multidisciplinary teams. The annual salary range is $65,000 to $108,000. Compensation depends on factors including skills, experience, training, clearances, certifications, and organizational needs. The position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus.

Requirements

Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related life sciences field.
At least one year of experience performing molecular biology techniques, including cloning, gene expression analysis, and genome engineering.
Background supporting cell culture, stem cell biology, and cellular assay development activities.
Practical experience with genomic technologies, including PCR, qPCR, NGS, transcriptomics, and sequencing workflows.
Prior work analyzing experimental data and preparing technical reports and scientific documentation.
Hands-on experience operating laboratory instrumentation and maintaining laboratory quality standards.
Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures, quality control practices, and research documentation requirements.
Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD public trust; approved adjudication is required before onboarding.

Nice To Haves

Prior work in a federal research environment.
Strong scientific communication, organization, and collaboration skills.
An active public trust or suitability.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, and optimize molecular biology experiments using gene expression analysis and functional genomics.
Design and generate genetic constructs through molecular cloning, plasmid engineering, CRISPR/Cas genome editing, and viral vector preparation.
Isolate, quantify, and assess DNA, RNA, and proteins using manual and automated workflows.
Prepare and process samples, including library preparation and quality control, for PCR, qPCR, NGS, transcriptomics, and single-cell sequencing; coordinate downstream analyses with bioinformatics teams.
Coordinate cell line quality control, including mycoplasma testing, karyotyping, STR/DNA fingerprinting, contamination monitoring, and validation of genetically modified cell lines.
Manage cell banking activities, including cryopreservation, recovery, authentication, distribution, shipment, receipt, and documentation.
Perform and optimize mammalian cell culture experiments using primary cells, stem cells, immortalized cell lines, and differentiated populations.
Differentiate stem cells into specialized cell types using established and novel protocols, automated culture systems, and high-throughput platforms.
Perform protein characterization and cellular analyses using Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining.
Prepare and analyze tissue specimens using cryostat sectioning, microscopy, and histological techniques.
Perform fluorescence and confocal imaging and quantitative image analysis.
Develop, validate, and implement fluorescence-, bioluminescence-, and reporter-based high-throughput screening assays.
Perform cellular functional assays using flow cytometers, Seahorse metabolic flux analyzers, and multi-electrode arrays.
Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data; prepare technical reports, manuscripts, scientific publications, and presentations; and support grant applications.
Participate in weekly laboratory meetings to present project updates, findings, and research progress.
Maintain inventories of reagents, antibodies, plasmids, cell lines, consumables, and experimental resources.
Operate, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain laboratory instrumentation and analytical equipment, including fluorescence and confocal imaging systems.
Monitor laboratory operations and infrastructure and coordinate maintenance and instrument services.
Prepare and maintain protocols, SOPs, electronic laboratory notebooks, regulatory and technical documentation, and quality records to ensure compliance and reproducibility.
Train laboratory personnel on equipment operation, laboratory procedures, and best practices.
Provide multidisciplinary teams with expertise in molecular biology, genome engineering, stem cell biology, assay development, and translational research to advance program objectives and collaborative research initiatives.

Benefits

Medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
Personal and family sick time and company-paid holidays.
Parental leave.
401(k) retirement plan.
Group term life and travel assistance.
Voluntary life and AD&D insurance.
Health Savings Account and health care and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts.
Transit and parking commuter benefits.
Short-term and long-term disability.
Tuition reimbursement, personal development, certifications, and learning opportunities.
Employee referral program.
Corporate-sponsored events and community outreach.
Annual Care.com membership.
Employee Assistance Program.
Supplemental benefits through Corestream, including critical care, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, legal assistance, and identity theft protection.
Potential eligibility for a discretionary variable incentive bonus.
Flexible benefits package.