Molecular Biology Research Assistant II

Culmen International LLC • Silver Springs, DE

3d

About The Position

Culmen International is hiring for a Molecular Biology Research Assistant II to support the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) is the U.S. Army’s premier biomedical research facility, dedicated to protecting and enhancing the health and readiness of military personnel worldwide. The Medical Systems Readiness Branch focuses on developing diagnostics, countermeasures, and operational medicine solutions to ensure rapid response to emerging threats.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related field.
• Minimum 2–3 years of hands-on molecular biology research experience.
• Proficiency in PCR/qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, gel electrophoresis, and cloning techniques.
• Familiarity with molecular diagnostic platforms and assay development.
• Ability to obtain and maintain required occupational health clearances.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatics tools.
• Knowledge of pathogen detection assays and diagnostic development.
• Familiarity with Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Institutional Review Board (IRB), Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), and BSL-2/BSL-3 safety protocols.
• Strong organizational and communication skills for collaborative research environments.

Responsibilities

• Conduct molecular biology experiments, including PCR/qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction, and sequencing workflows.
• Assist in assay development and validation for diagnostic applications.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure compliance with biosafety and quality standards.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data; prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Support procurement, inventory management, and equipment maintenance.
• Contribute to publications and presentations as appropriate.
• Support in Institutional Review Board (IRB) and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocols.
• Assist in ordering and tracking supplies.
• Assist in record keeping and management.

Benefits

• Exceptional Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance, premiums for employees are 100% paid by Culmen, and dependent coverage is available at a nominal rate (including same or opposite sex domestic partners)
• 401k – Vested immediately and 4% match
• Life insurance and disability paid by the company
• Supplemental Insurance Available
• Opportunities for Training and Continuing Education
• 12 Paid Holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees