Biologist

Axle•Baltimore, MD

23h•$95,000 - $106,000•Onsite

About The Position

Axle is a bioscience and information technology company that offers advancements in translational research, biomedical informatics, and data science applications to research centers and healthcare organizations nationally and abroad. They work with top research organizations and facilities in the country, including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Axle is seeking a Biologist to join their team at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supporting the National Institute on Aging (NIA) located in Baltimore, MD. This position requires contractor support for laboratory and computational analysis of genomic and epigenomic data, supporting ongoing research involving genotyping, long-range sequencing, and DNA methylation profiling.

Requirements

Master's degree with 2 plus years experience.
Field of Study: Biology.
Proficiency in R.
Proficiency in at least one scripting language (Python, Bash, or equivalent).
Experience with QC and data visualization.
Familiarity with genomic data formats (FASTQ, BAM, VCF).

Responsibilities

Perform DNA extraction from blood, tissue, or cultured cells using established protocols.
Conduct genotyping assays (e.g., SNP arrays, PCR-based methods).
Support long-range sequencing workflows (e.g., library prep and sequencing using long-read platforms such as PacBio or Oxford Nanopore).
Provide technical experience needed to assist in studying the basic principles of plant and animal life.
Evaluate read quality, coverage, and depth.
Evaluate sample integrity and contamination.
Flag anomalies and provide preliminary interpretation.
Assist with performing basic laboratory experiments and procedures.
Perform DNA methylation assays (e.g., bisulfite conversion, array-based or sequencing-based methods).
Execute established QC pipelines for sequencing and genotyping data.
Compile and document QC metrics in standardized formats.
Modify existing scripts and pipelines to support project needs.
Perform data analysis using R (statistical analysis and visualization) and scripting (Python, Bash, or equivalent).
Conduct variant calling and basic annotation.
Conduct DNA methylation data processing and analysis.
Conduct data integration across datasets when directed.
Prepare, organize and maintain various lab samples, supplies, and equipment.
Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks and electronic records.
Learn new laboratory techniques and procedures.
Identify routine technical issues and implement standard troubleshooting steps.
Prepare summary tables and figures.
Prepare written summaries of methods and results.
Present findings in internal meetings to NIH staff.
Contribute to draft reports, manuscripts, or project updates.