Biological Scientist (Stem Cell Biology/Genome Engineering)

Nextonic Solutions LLC•Rockville, MO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Nextonic Solutions is seeking a Biological Scientist to join its team supporting the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Rockville, Maryland. The position designs, executes, and optimizes advanced molecular, cellular, genomic, and functional studies for mechanistic and translational research. Work includes genome engineering, stem cell biology, high-throughput screening, imaging, sequencing, and specialized analytical platforms. The role also provides scientific and technical leadership in laboratory operations, quality control, instrumentation, data analysis, documentation, and multidisciplinary collaboration, contributing to research programs, publications, presentations, and grant-related activities.

Requirements

Experience or skills in cell culture.
Experience or skills in molecular biology and genome engineering.
Experience or skills in stem cell biology.
Experience or skills in genomics and sequencing.
Experience or skills in protein and cellular assays.
Experience or skills in high-throughput screening.
Experience or skills with advanced instrumentation and microscopy.
Experience or skills in cell banking and quality control.
Experience or skills in laboratory operations, scientific analysis, and communication.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, and optimize molecular biology and cell-based experiments, including CRISPR genome editing, cloning, construct design, gene expression analysis, and functional genomics.
Perform and optimize mammalian cell culture, including maintenance of primary cells, stem cells, immortalized cell lines, and differentiated cell populations under sterile conditions.
Differentiate stem cells into specialized cell types using established and novel protocols, automated culture systems, and high-throughput platforms.
Design and generate genetic constructs through molecular cloning, plasmid engineering, CRISPR/Cas genome editing, and viral vector preparation.
Isolate, quantify, characterize, and assess the quality of DNA, RNA, and protein from cultured cells and tissue specimens using manual and automated workflows.
Prepare and process samples for NGS, transcriptomic analyses, single-cell sequencing, PCR, qPCR, and other genomic applications, including library preparation and quality control.
Conduct transcriptomic and genomic data-generation workflows and coordinate with bioinformatics teams on downstream analyses.
Coordinate cell banking and cell-line stewardship, including cryopreservation, recovery, authentication, distribution, shipment and receipt, and recordkeeping.
Perform protein characterization assays, including Western blotting, immunocytochemistry, and immunofluorescence staining.
Prepare and analyze tissue specimens using cryostat sectioning, microscopy, and histological techniques.
Develop, validate, and implement high-throughput screening assays, including bioluminescence-, fluorescence-, and reporter-based assays for drug discovery and functional genomics.
Perform cellular functional assays using platforms such as Seahorse metabolic flux analyzers, multi-electrode arrays, and flow cytometers.
Coordinate cell-line quality-control programs, including mycoplasma testing, karyotyping, STR/DNA fingerprinting, contamination monitoring, and validation of genetically modified cell lines.
Operate, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and advanced imaging systems; coordinate equipment maintenance and service, validate instrument performance, and train personnel in proper operation.
Perform quantitative image analysis using fluorescence and confocal microscopy platforms to assess cellular phenotypes and molecular markers.
Establish and maintain inventories of reagents, antibodies, plasmids, cell lines, small molecules, consumables, and experimental protocols.
Maintain laboratory samples, supplies, equipment, electronic laboratory notebooks, protocols, SOPs, and regulatory documentation.
Monitor laboratory procedures and infrastructure for conformance to standards and quality requirements.
Collect, record, analyze, and interpret biological and operational data; prepare reports and summaries of findings.
Prepare technical reports, manuscripts, protocols, and presentations, and contribute to grant applications, publications, and collaborative research initiatives.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams and coordinate the work of biological technicians, technologists, and other scientists.
Learn new laboratory techniques and procedures; use computers to store, process, and analyze data.
Provide technical assistance with studies of the basic principles of plant and animal life and perform basic laboratory experiments and procedures.