Molecular Biology Senior Scientist

Eagle Health is seeking a Molecular Biology Senior Scientist to join our team in Fort Detrick, MD.

The employee will serve as the Senior Research Scientist for high-throughput and high resolution core capabilities within the agency. This effort requires a knowledge of specialized microscopes for live cell or high-resolution imaging, 3D bio printing as well high-content automated imaging cell based systems used for HTS of MCM directed against various biothreat agents. In addition, application of strong computational background/programming experience using R, python and pearl are required. This effort requires and ability to assemble and work in multidisciplinary teams using interpersonal skills, and communication/organizational skills.

• Serve as lead Scientist for the High content imaging capability at the agency. Support the In Vitro Screening Core pipeline for testing molecular libraries (small molecule, peptide, nucleic acids) for efficacy against biothreat pathogens. As lead Scientist, the employee is responsible for data collection, analysis and evaluation. The employee will ensure that data meets rigorous standards of quality control.
• Responsible for providing technical training to Institute personnel on use of automated equipment, as well as day to day maintenance of high-resolution microscopes and operation of high-content imaging instruments that support the high throughput in vitro screening efforts.
• Collaborate with Institute PIs on developing assay protocols to assist in their research efforts. The employee shall apply their knowledge and experience using existing platforms (i.e. Opera High Content Imager, plate readers, high-resolution Leica STED platforms and 3D bioprinter) as well as identify new platforms to advance MCM discovery, evaluation, and development.
• Support the In Vitro Screening Core pipeline for testing large molecular libraries (small molecule, peptide, nucleic acids, antibodies) for efficacy against biothreat pathogens. As a Senior Scientist, the employee is responsible for sample logistics, data collection, quantitative analysis of imaging and/or biochemical HTS data and integration of data sets from various platforms using software such as Genedata, Spotfire and Acapella. The employee will ensure that data meets rigorous standards of quality control.
• Applies expert knowledge in high throughput screening to evaluate data analysis software applications for integration into the testing platforms. Responsible for ensuring that data is stored, archived and maintained in appropriate databases and agency IT systems.
• In collaboration with agency leadership, author or coauthor research proposals, solicitations, and other vehicles to solicit financial support to meet agency mission/portfolio objectives. This includes assisting to answer service calls from government sponsors (e.g. DTRA).
• Identify, foster, and assist in the management of external collaborations with other government agencies, non-profits, academic, and private-sector research organizations and companies. This includes assisting in interactions with partner agencies to increase access to molecular libraries of interest.
• As the Senior Research Scientist for the High resolution and high-content high-throughput imaging capability, the employee is expected to present work at 1-2 Scientific Meetings per year. Also, this effort may require travel to support collaborative efforts with pharmaceutical, academic, and external partners. This requirement is anticipated to comprise 2 trips per year.
• Prepare and provide TPOC a Lead Scientist Research/Technical NLT the last working day of each month.
• Employee shall present research findings/presentations at monthly lab meetings and attend scientific discussion weekly meetings.
• The employee will assist in the preparation of technical reports, standard operating procedures, and manuscripts relating to their research efforts. The employee may be expected to present research findings at two scientific conference per year. Employee will present results in written and oral format publicly and internally as requested.