Research Scientist

The Geneva Foundation•Silver Spring, MD

29d•$95,000

About The Position

The Research Scientist serves as a key member of the research and program management team, responsible for coordinating, executing, and advancing scientific studies and related initiatives. This position ensures the successful implementation of research protocols, maintenance of study quality control, adherence to regulatory standards, and alignment with programmatic objectives. The Research Scientist collaborates with investigators, sponsors, and cross-functional teams to oversee day-today study operations, data collection, and analysis. This role demonstrates both scientific expertise and organizational skills to translate research concepts into actionable outcomes that advance the organization’s mission. About the Project The Research Scientist provides advanced scientific and technical expertise to support traumatic brain injury [TBI] biomarker research at Walter Reed Army Institute of Research. This position oversees the design, coordination, and execution of biomarker-focused studies, while guiding multidisciplinary teams of government researchers, clinicians, contract staff, and academic collaborators. The incumbent contributes domain expertise in biomarker development and neurotrauma research to ensure high-impact scientific outcomes and alignment with the broader military medical research strategy.

Requirements

Master’s Degree (PhD preferred)) in biomedical sciences, neuroscience, or related field
2-4 years progressive experience in research and/or program management
Demonstrated experience in study design, implementation, and quality control
Experience training research staff on study-specific procedures and documentation
Familiarity with IRB submissions, human subjects research, and regulatory compliance
Excellent oral and written communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
Strong project management and organizational skills with attention to detail
Ability to be flexible with changing priorities and available to interact with employees, clients and sponsors of all levels
Ability to exercise independent judgment in fast-paced, high-pressured environment with strict deadlines and to manage multiple projects
Ability to develop strong trusting relationships to gain support and achieve results
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and research management tools (e.g., REDCap, Excel, SPSS, or similar)

Nice To Haves

2-4 years knowledge and experience with Department of Defense (DoD) Grants and Agreements administration and management, preferred
Experience with advanced medical technologies, preferred
Knowledge of military systems, preferred
Experience collaborating with government or academic institutions (e.g., DoD, NIH, VA) preferred

Responsibilities

Monitor project timelines and deliverables to ensure milestones are met, including task prioritization, scheduling, and resource coordination
Train research staff in study-specific procedures, data entry, sample handling, and documentation standards
Develop and refine standard operating procedures to ensure consistency across projects
Coordinate with compliance, regulatory, and administrative teams to align research and program goals
Facilitate communication between leadership, investigators, and sponsors regarding project progress
Identify and mitigate operational risks or barriers to successful study execution
Promote efficiency through process improvements and strategic planning
Assist in leading research and study processes, including and advising on standardized procedures across the lab
Assist in the development of universal standard procedures and expectations for consistent research across all projects, including best practice guidelines, internal controls, and technical standardization
Assist in the design of research studies, including selection of data collection measures and follow-up time periods, and assist in selection of intervention to be delivered
Maintain study quality control through regular data checks, protocol adherence reviews, and documentation audits
Ensure compliance with IRB, DoD, and institutional standards
Lead analysis and interpretation of study data for reports, manuscripts, and presentations
Contribute to grant writing, including technical sections of proposals and progress reports
Identify funding mechanisms and support preparation of funding applications, including writing components of the proposal package and aiding in scientific design
Aid in strategic initiatives related to portfolio sustainability
Maintain detailed study documentation and contribute to program evaluations
Liaise with internal and external collaborators to ensure alignment of study objectives
Assist in coordinating cross-institutional collaborations to expand the scientific and translational impact of ongoing programs
Periodically conduct wet-lab experiments and lead data management and analysis