Research Associate III (Fouts Lab)

J. Craig Venter Institute • Rockville, MD

129d

About The Position

The Research Associate III (RA3) position is responsible for independently performing Molecular Microbiology and Synthetic Biology projects with a strong emphasis on bacteriophage engineering and characterization. The scientist will manage phage-focused experimental pipelines, maintain timelines aligned with project deliverables, and contribute to multiple ongoing initiatives with minimal supervision.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related field required; or an Associates of Arts degree with five, or more, years of related work experience required; or a master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, or Molecular Biology with a minimum of one year of experience required.
• Demonstrated experience in bacteriophage propagation, engineering, and host-phage interaction studies.
• Ability to plan, execute, and troubleshoot complex experiments independently with minimal day-to-day oversight.
• Strong organizational skills to track progress across multiple projects and report outcomes to investigators.
• Must be able to operate standard laboratory equipment such as balances, centrifuges, speed vac, spectrophotometer, and autoclave.
• Familiarity with standard laboratory safety procedures.
• Strong computer aptitude, including experience with word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Must be able to read, comprehend and discuss relevant literature with co-workers.
• Excellent organization and time management skills.
• Flexibility to handle a variety of tasks and shift priorities simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to effectively interact with all levels of staff and external contacts; ability to work as an effective team member.
• Cooperative and service-oriented attitude; must be able to work under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor.
• Ability to use sound judgment to effectively solve problems within the scope of the position.
• Shows initiative and has the ability to work with moderate supervision.
• Superior verbal and written communications skills.

Responsibilities

• Performs basic and specialized molecular biology techniques towards the engineering of synthetic bacteriophages and bacterial genomes with limited supervision of the scientific investigator.
• Maintains stocks of all reagents necessary for above techniques.
• Keeps accurate written records and biological stocks representing work performed.
• Performs daily maintenance of equipment for associated techniques.
• Interacts with Investigators on experimental planning and analysis.
• Participates in laboratory meetings.
• Assists in the organization of team activities and the training of Research Associates (I and II’s).
• Safety training of new personnel.
• Ensuring chemical inventory and general lab safety and environmental aspects.
• Overseeing removal of the biological waste.
• Performs other related tasks as assigned.
• Strictly adheres to all documented JCVI policies and procedures.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity Employer

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees