We are seeking a Research Technician II to join a dynamic and growing team at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR) Wound Infection Department (WID).  WID is tasked with delivering specific, effective countermeasures for infection of combat wounds pre-injury, at the point-of-injury, and post-injury.  The Structural Biology (XTAL) group focuses on structure-based drug designs for microbial pathogens of military relevance.  Researchers in this group express, purify and crystalize ESKAPEE pathogen proteins of interest and utilize sophisticated techniques such as X-ray Crystallography and mass spectroscopy to model small molecule drug-protein interactions.

The candidate will perform a variety of laboratory procedures and be familiar with the field's concepts, practices and procedures including, but not limited to, microbiology, immunology and molecular biology.  The candidate will work as part of a scientific team to understand and resolve complex biological questions while contributing to product development through the analysis and interpretation of data and presentation of findings at meetings.  Under the guidance of the XTAL team lead, the candidate will actively pursue the scientific objectives of the Branch and contribute significantly to the execution of required studies.

Duties include, but not limited to: 

• Provide technical support in several research areas including:  1) Molecular biology, 2) Microbiology, 3) Immunology, 4) X‐ray crystallography, 5) Various chromatographic systems, and 6) structure‐function relationships.
• Contribute to the development of research protocols and grant proposals and in the conduct of research related to trauma‐related infections.
• Perform routine laboratory duties required for the smooth and safe operation of laboratory such as maintaining a supply of clean glassware, properly disposing of hazardous biological and chemical waste, preparing reagents, and maintaining an inventory of laboratory chemicals.
• Keep accurate and complete records of research done in accordance with applicable standards.
• Submit reports and data summaries as requested and prepare research results for presentation and publication in the scientific literature.
• Provide all job-related progress reports/technical reports as requested.
• Maintain laboratory operation to include insuring stocks of laboratory supplies and reagents, ordering supplies and preparing supply requests for approval, annual inventory of micro-organisms, annually updating of technical research support area SOPs, maintaining a supply of clean glassware, properly disposing of hazardous biological and chemical waste, preparing reagents, and maintaining an inventory of laboratory chemicals, orderliness and cleanliness.
• Maintain a safe workplace ensuring that he/she is aware of and observes appropriate safety and occupational health rules and regulations.
• Comply with occupational health and safety standards and complete all required safety, biosafety and security training classes as established by WRAIR as minimal standard in the Joint Safety Manual.
• Obtain required occupational physical examinations to conduct work in department laboratories.
• Performs light duties and other related duties as required and assigned.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Education: B.S. or M.S. in appropriate discipline (e.g., microbiology, immunology or molecular biology)

Experience:

• Experience with small animal models preferred.
• Experience with X-ray crystallography is desired.
• Proficiency in basic laboratory techniques and mathematics skills required.
• Must have ability to perform work at a high level of accuracy and maintain detailed records of research.
• Strong computer skills and experience with relevant software including MS Office and GraphPad Prism.
• Night and weekend hours may be required

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Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, is an innovative small business committed to providing world-class technical, management, and training support services to government and public sector clients. We focus on people, processes, and performance to deliver superior results. Since our inception in 1997, our commitment to mission success and customer satisfaction has been recognized with exponential growth and exceptional past performance ratings. We accept challenging assignments and drive projects from the planning stages, through implementation, and into operations and support.

Please note: Final compensation for this position will be determined by various factors such as the Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant work experience, specific skills and competencies, geographic location, education, and certifications.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities