Laboratory Senior Scientist II

Cortek Inc•Washington, DC

3d•$1 - $1•Remote

About The Position

CORTEK is seeking a Laboratory Senior Scientist II in support of the Department of Homeland Security BioWatch program. This role involves performing the functions of a technical expert in the relevant scientific field, applying scientific expertise in defining and resolving system issues, performing analysis, and developing plans and requirements for complex systems. The position supports planning activities for multicenter studies and short-term testing to resolve technical issues, coordinates technical consultation requests, and manages the preparation of analyses and recommendations for program implementation. The Senior Scientist II will also provide technical review of laboratory operations reports, develop study plans, and evaluate data related to optimizing laboratory processes. Additionally, they will consult with local Biodetection Laboratories on discrepancies, track corrective actions, and conduct periodic reviews and updates of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Quality Assurance Program Plans (QAPPs). The role includes triaging a shared laboratory operations inbox and managing laboratory operations meetings.

Requirements

Masters or Doctorate degree in Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry or related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in laboratory-based science generating analytical results from testing of clinical or environmental samples.
Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
Strong attention to detail with a focus on data accuracy and quality assurance.
Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Outstanding relationship-building skills.
Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including SharePoint, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams.
Must have an active Secret Clearance and must be able to obtain DHS Suitability.

Responsibilities

Perform the functions of a technical expert in the relevant scientific field in support of major programs or system development.
Apply scientific expertise in defining and resolving system issues, performing analysis, and developing plans and requirements in the subject-matter area for complex systems.
Support planning activities for multicenter studies, and short-term testing activities to resolve technical issues.
Coordinate technical consultation requests and track to satisfactory outcomes.
Coordinate and manage the preparation of analysis, evaluations, and recommendations for proper implementation of programs and systems.
Support the Federal Director of Laboratory Operations (DLO) in applying scientific expertise in defining and resolving system issues, performing analysis, and developing plans and requirements in the subject matter area for complex systems.
Provide technical review, comments, and recommendations on laboratory operations reports received from various sources.
Develop study plans and evaluate data and/or reports related to efforts to optimize laboratory processes, including, but not limited to, processing of environmental samples, analytical techniques, and technological changes.
Consult with local Biodetection Laboratories found to have discrepancies from Quality Assurance (QA) Program audits and proficiency tests and track corrective action implementation in coordination with the Biodetection Director of QA and the Biodetection Director of Laboratory Operations or their designee(s).
Conduct periodic reviews of the Biodetection Laboratory Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and the Laboratory Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP) at the direction of the DLO, and update as necessary.
Perform expert functions in the relevant scientific field supporting major programs or system development.
Coordinate and manage the preparation of analysis, evaluations, and recommendations for properly implementing programs and systems.
Triage shared laboratory operations inbox.
Manage laboratory operations meetings, including scheduling, developing agendas, capturing action items and highlights, and distributing notes following meetings.
Travel as required