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Research Associate, Bacteriology (#1868)

BNBI
56121.61 To 92722.66 (USD) Annually

May 05, 2025
BACKGROUND The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a one-of-a-kind facility located on Fort Detrick in Frederick MD and is dedicated to defending the nation against biological threats. Its work supports DHS and National biodefense preparedness planning, response, emerging threat characterization and bioforensic analyses. It is the first national laboratory created by DHS in response to biodefense gaps identified following the Amerithrax attacks of 2001 and has been operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute (BNBI) since 2006. Since its inception, NBACC and its staff have filled critical shortfalls in our scientific knowledge of biological agents needed to protect the public and defend the Nation from biological threats, whether naturally occurring, accidental, or deliberate and provided federal law enforcement with scientific data to support the investigation and attribution of biocrimes and protection of the US bioeconomy. NBACC includes two centers: the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), which conducts the technical analyses in support of federal law enforcement investigations, and the National Biological Threat Characterization Center (NBTCC), which conducts experiments and studies to obtain data required for a better understanding of biological vulnerabilities and hazards. Together these centers offer a unique national resource for understanding the risks posed by biological agents and emerging technologies to inform biodefense policy and response planning and the operational capability to support the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of biocrimes and bioterrorism. PRIMARY FUNCTION Utilizes standard methods for the identification of bacteria obtained from forensic evidence at the NBFAC in support of the FBI and other federal partners. Characterizes bacterial agents using phenotypic, biochemical and/or automated identification systems at Biosafety Levels 2, 3, and 4 under an ISO 17025 Quality Management System. MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor of Science (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline or engineering, and a minimum of 4 years of related experience. Clinical laboratory experience and/or ASCP certification in Microbiology is highly desired. Intermediate scientific proficiency in laboratory functions. Possesses the ability to identify issues with laboratory protocols, procedures, and experimental plans. Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential. Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player. Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination is desirable. Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC's management system (e.g., ISO). Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access. Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required. May be required to participate in NBACC's alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES Conducts bioforensic casework at BSL-2, BSL-3 and BSL-4 by performing standard bacteriological analyses such as gram staining, antibiotic resistance testing, phenotypic/biochemical testing and automated bacterial identification (Vitek 2 and BIOLOG). Participates in Laboratory Response Network (LRN) analyses on environmental and clinical (if required) samples. Accurately documents and maintains results, equipment, and reagents in a computerized Laboratory Information System (LIMS) and interprets data for the preparation of analytical reports. Participates in the research and development of new methods and technologies for bacterial characterization. Performs maintenance and characterization of the Bioforensic Repository Collection including shipment of materials. Ability to cross-train with other NBFAC teams. Possesses the ability to work on multiple science tasks simultaneously, while performing assignments outside of area of expertise. Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Follows established procedures on routine work, requires instruction only on new assignments, and is self-sufficient in monitoring and reporting on quality and compliance. Participates in the testing and evaluation of new technologies and protocols including writing and updating NBACC Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions and forms to improve NBACC's ability to serve its customers. Identifies departures from the Quality Management System (QMS) and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences. With minimal supervision, operates, maintains, and characterizes the performance of equipment ensuring the reagents and supplies are maintained and used properly. Serves as a member of a team in developing, validating and maintaining methods for identifying and characterizing biological threat agents. Must be a team player, communicate clearly, be open to hearing ideas and suggestions from others, diffuse situations, and exercise empathy and patience with colleagues. Must have the ability to multi-task, maintain composure under pressure, and utilize effective time management skills to prioritize tasks. Must be a self-starter driven by an eagerness to succeed, maintain flexibility, adapt to change in a productive and positive manner, learn new concepts, and utilize critical thinking to resolve complex problems. Maintains appropriate records. Performs other duties as assigned/authorized.