Research Assistant II

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant II to support the Structural Biology Section in the Viral Diseases Program (VDP) located at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) in Silver Spring, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to VDP.

The incumbent will be responsible for purification of viral antigens and immunogens, preparation of antibodies for structural characterization, biochemical and biophysical characterization of viral antigens, high-throughput protein crystallization screening, preparing samples for cryogenic and negative-stain transmission electron microscopy, and aiding in collection and processing of data. A successful candidate will carry out scientific projects related to SARS-CoV-2 and other emerging viral pathogens to enable vaccine development, antibody therapeutics and small molecule inhibitors as part of a multi-faceted therapeutics discovery and development pipeline at WRAIR under the supervision of senior scientists and in collaboration with other research scientists. The position also involves publishing and communicating research as part of the Structural Biology Section. The incumbent will work within a multidisciplinary environment consisting of military, government, academic, and international collaborators.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Collects, processes, and interprets experimental data as a member of the VDP structural biology laboratory and keeps detailed inventory and records of experiments by maintaining up to date, clear, and accurate laboratory notebooks.
• Purifies viral antigens, immunogens, and antibodies using Akta chromatography systems.
• Performs biochemical and biophysical assays to characterize viral antigens and their interactions with relevant receptors, antibodies, or small molecules, including but not limited to biolayer interferometry and surface plasmon resonance.
• Prepares samples for and performs high-throughput crystallization screening.
• Prepares samples for cryogenic and negative-stain transmission electron microscopy.
• Aids research scientists with data collection, processing, and analysis, applying relevant statistical and bioinformatics models.
• Helps maintain the working order of the laboratory and lab equipment.
• Prepares presentations for weekly lab meetings, and helps to draft figures for submission to scientific journals and preliminary data for grant applications.
• Develops an understanding of the scientific literature relating to the lab research topics.
• Follows all VDP and WRAIR safety procedures and completes required training in a timely manner.
• Performs other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Fine motor skills are required for manipulation and handling of small and fragile samples.
• Basic knowledge of biochemistry is required.
• Basic knowledge of structural biology is an advantage.
• Prior experience in biochemistry or molecular biology laboratory work is an advantage.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $20.99 - $28.85. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.