Laboratory Technician

CAMRIS • Bethesda, MD

3d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Laboratory Technician to support the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH), world renowned National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) in Bethesda, MD. Our NIAID professional, technical, and scientific support personnel are part of a preeminent team focused on positively impacting millions of lives around the world with groundbreaking research. Candidates will work at a prominent and vibrant NIAID worksite to directly support exciting ongoing research activities as a contractor team member. Accelerate your career and apply below to help us make a difference.
CAMRIS International is a dynamic clinical research and international development firm that achieves innovative solutions to health and development challenges through high-quality, cost-effective programs and research management services. We combine our proven systems with today’s most effective, evidence-based best practices. Our core practice areas include: clinical research; vaccine research, microbiology and infectious disease research, development and production; biodefense; global health security; and HIV/AIDS programs.
Our employees enjoy a collegial environment where individual contributions matter at all levels. At CAMRIS, you will notably improve the lives of people at home and abroad.

Requirements

• Position requires BA/BS in biology, biochemistry, or related field.
• Minimum two (2) years of work experience.
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office Suite including knowledge of computer systems and ability to work independently with data analysis programs.
• Ability to lift or carry less than 25 pounds, push or pull less than 25 pounds, reach above shoulder level, and use both hands.
• Must have depth perception, have correctable near vision, ability to distinguish basic colors, and perform repetitive activities.
• Ability to work alone and closely with others.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including disposable dust/surgical mask.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with virus analysis in cell culture for replication, expression, and genetic stability, among other characteristics is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform experiments on clinical and non-clinical samples involving seasonal and avian influenza as well as the immunological responses against these viruses, using wide variety of procedures and techniques including DNA technology, real-time PCR, western blot, next generation sequencing, microscopy, cell culture, gene synthesis/expression, translation, and mutagenesis.
• Perform the development and validation of ELISA tests for human antibody testing, and with protein production for vaccine manufacture and ELISA testing. This includes the creation of protein expression constructs, maintaining baculovirus stocks, performing insect cell culture, protein harvest, isolation, and purification.
• Assist with the development of universal influenza vaccine candidates.
• Perform experiments with blood samples from patients and donors.
• Process clinical samples to isolate serum, plasma, and/or peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
• Develop and maintain study databases of experimental data.
• Organize and maintain source documents, ensuring that they are complete and accurate.
• Assist the Principal Investigator in research and clinical protocols such as gathering data for reports.
• Perform a wide variety of procedures and techniques, including culture of cell lines, collection and culture of primary mammalian cells, transfection and retroviral transduction of mammalian cells, bacterial culture and electroporation, in vitro infection of mammalian cells, DNA and RNA isolation from bacteria and mammalian cells, PCR, quantitative RT-PCR, DNA and protein electrophoresis, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry and ELISAs some of which may be performed in a Biosafety Level 3 containment facility.
• Maintain accurate daily records of experiments and results.
• Document findings, stating methods and procedures, including any modifications employed specimens and materials involved, and results of experiments.
• Discuss the results and updates with lab or section chiefs as part of the planning process for subsequent studies.
• Enter data and use computer software to collect data for reports.
• Calibrate and operate a variety of laboratory instruments used to perform tests and analyses.
• Quality control of the laboratory including upkeep and routine maintenance of equipment.
• Maintain laboratory supplies and equipment, including chemicals, biological materials, liquid nitrogen, etc.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• CAMRIS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for individuals and families, FSAs, HSA, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability, legal services, voluntary hospital indemnity, critical illness and accident insurances, EAP, pet insurance, 401(k) with employer match and Roth option, tuition and professional reimbursement, public transportation support in the DMV area, a referral bonus program, vacation with tenure-based increases, PTO, 11 paid holidays, paid bonding leave, and paid supplemental short-term disability.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level