Research Scientist I

Health Research Incorporated • Albany, NY

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Health Research, Inc. is seeking a Research Scientist I to support surveillance testing for the detection and characterization of circulating and emerging human pathogens of major public health concern, using wastewater collected from sites across New York State. This work utilizes state-of-the-art methodologies—including particle-assisted precipitation, ultracentrifugation, and advanced nucleic acid extraction techniques—to enable high-quality pathogen monitoring at scale. In this role, the Research Scientist I will perform cutting edge research and development within the laboratory, including technical method comparisons, equipment validation, and the creation and refinement of Quality Assurance systems. Wastewater testing is a rapidly growing field that has become central to the public health response to COVID-19 and other priority pathogens. As part of the largest state public health laboratory in the United States, the incumbent will contribute to the nation’s largest state wastewater surveillance program. This dynamic, collaborative program includes investigators working across infectious disease and organic molecule testing. High-quality operation of this front-end laboratory is essential to the success of all downstream testing and program outcomes. This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health®!

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and two years of research experience; OR a Master’s degree in a related field and one year of research experience.
• Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables, is required.
• The selected candidate must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location specified in the job posting and must also be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts, prior to hire.
• Exposure to potentially hazardous substances may be involved with this position. Therefore, the incumbent in this position may be required to wear personal protective clothing and equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Public Health, or a related field.
• Proven experience with nucleic acid extraction and PCR and/or dPCR.
• Experience with wastewater surveillance.
• Experience with method validation and/or QA systems.

Responsibilities

• Perform cutting edge research and development within the laboratory, including technical method comparisons, equipment validation, and the creation and refinement of Quality Assurance systems.
• Support surveillance testing for the detection and characterization of circulating and emerging human pathogens of major public health concern, using wastewater collected from sites across New York State.

Benefits

• Health, dental and vision insurance - Several comprehensive health insurance plans to choose from
• Flexible benefit accounts - Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking and transit
• Generous paid time off - Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation and personal leave
• Tuition support - Assistance is available for individuals pursuing educational or training opportunities
• Retirement Benefits - HRI is a participating employer in the New York State and Local Retirement System and offers optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan. HRI provides a postretirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses
• Employee Assistance Program - Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees