Microbiologist IV at IHRC INCORPORATED

Description

IHRC, Inc. provides scientific, information management, and administrative program support to various Centers, Institutes and Offices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other agencies under US Health and Human Services (HHS). The successful candidate will be a full-time employee of IHRC, Inc. and will be assigned to the Division of Bacterial Diseases (DBD), National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), at the CDC, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA, to provide scientific and technical support for the MPIR. The Microbiologist IV will assist in the laboratory identification of respiratory pathogens and participate in the development and optimization of molecular-based diagnostics, including some advanced technologies. The successful candidate will be assigned to provide laboratory support services.  

• Participate in projects that involve running real-time PCR assays and Next-generation sequencing, as well as activities ancillary to these approaches. 
• Conduct real-time PCR and RT-PCR experiments for the research and development of robust, sensitive, and specific biological assays. 
• Perform analysis of multiple parameters including primer/probe sequences, concentrations, enzyme kits, and other components. 
• Optimize multiple parameters associated with real-time PCR, RT-PCR and Next-generation sequencing. 
• Provide outbreak response support. 
• Perform qPCR testing of clinical specimens from outbreak response efforts. 
• Organize and conduct molecular training at study sites. 
• Development and maintenance of Standard Operating Procedures and protocols for assays being developed. 
• Prepare scientific reports and manuscripts as it relates to research and development being performed. 
• Provide technical assistance to selected activities related to the use of real-time PCR and Next-Generation Sequencing assays. 
• Provide support to the CDC EOC for agency response activities when the EOC is activated. 
• Provide field support for CDC outbreak activities. 
• Collaborate with CDC and its partners to respond and recover from DBD led outbreak activities.
• Assist with developing and pilot testing instruments (e.g., questionnaires, chart abstract forms) and enrollment procedures to be used in the outbreak response assessments.
• Work with CDC to develop appropriate data systems that allow for secure collection and electronic transmission of data in outbreak response scenarios.
• Coordinate monitoring of enrollment, data analysis, interpretation of results, and preparation of reports for presentation and publication. 
• Work with partners and CDC to review, track, and monitor progress towards the response goals and to address any risks, delays, or performance problems. 
• Work with partners and CDC to investigate disease outbreaks. 
• Ensure data quality and integrity of data documentation. 
• Provides support for emergency response support as relevant to the scope of work.

Requirements

Education Requirement: 

• Bachelor’s degree with 6-10 years of experience or master’s degree with 0-4 years of experience. 
• Degree in Life Sciences to include Biology, Microbiology, or closely related field; or combination of BS or MS degree with work experience in Biology, Microbiology, or closely related field. 
• Experience in a laboratory working in a similar capacity

Experience Requirement: 

• Experience in a laboratory working in a similar capacity. 
• Proficiency in running real-time PCR assays, cell culture, and/or serology. 
• Experience performing assay development-related activities and procedures. 
• Practical knowledge of Biosafety Level-2 (BSL-2) or Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) procedures in a regulated facility. 
• Proficiency with general molecular biology practices. 
• Proficiency with MS Excel, Word, and DNA analysis software. 
• Proficiency with common laboratory practices within a microbiology laboratory, including real-time PCR platforms, a variety of nucleic acid automated systems, isolation and culturing techniques, complex data analysis and interpretation, in addition to understanding and adhering to strict laboratory safety standards and laboratory practices. 
• Collaboration with scientists in diverse research, development, and production laboratories. 
• Knowledge and ability to follow all outlined approved CDC Biosafety guidelines in the performance of assigned duties. 

Desirable: 

• Experience conducting next-generation sequencing. 
• Experience working with respiratory pathogenic bacteria. 
• Knowledge of CDC laboratory policy, quality, and regulatory requirements. 
• Ability to work independently while maintaining the flexibility to respond to the needs of the program.

Language Skills: 

• The candidate must possess excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

*Must be a United States citizen or permanent resident or have authorization for employment in the United States.