Odyssey Systems is recruiting for a Molecular Biologist Researcher (MBR) to support the 81st Medical Group Graduate Health Science Education programs and the Clinical Research Laboratory research portfolio. The MBR will conduct research across medical modernization thrust areas that align with Air Force Medical Service (AFMS) and Defense Health Agency (DHA) strategic plans to improve medical care of the warfighter and DoD beneficiary population. The MBR will provide molecular biology research support by (a) systematically investigating molecular theory and experimentation characterized by research- type application of scientific methods in planning, executing, interpreting, documenting, and reporting findings obtained while performing basic or applied research; and (b) plan, design, and personally conduct clinically related human/animal research studies. Work is completed in accordance with the processes and procedures that ensure compliance with federal regulations, DoD Instructions, and institutional policies relative to research at Keesler Medical Center (KMC).

***Contingent upon contract award***

Duties include, but not limited to:

• Conduct research in the specialized field of molecular biology and related areas, including but not limited to the performance of medical laboratory analysis of human and animal specimens to answer complex clinical research questions, as well as, to diagnose medical conditions, evaluate treatments, and monitor diseases.
• Participates in devising the laboratory method validation plan and develops and/or validates new or modified methods of highly complex analyses in support of highly technical research efforts and in accordance with the laboratory director’s approved plan.
• Performs method validation, troubleshooting and optimization studies on methods used to support on-going research protocols in compliance with approved plan.
• Performs a variety of cell-based and nucleic acid-based analytical procedures including (but not limited to) polymerase chain reactions (PCR), Southern analysis, allele-specific oligonucleotide hybridization, short- tandem repeat length analysis, DNA or RNA sequencing, restriction enzyme digestion, capillary or gel-based electrophoresis, microarrays, and allele-specific PCR. Utilizes computerized robotics, column, and array- based sequencers, various electrophoresis and hybridization equipment, and photographic and digital imaging equipment to perform and document testing. Analyzes and interprets the results obtained.
• Performs a variety of lipid, carbohydrate, protein-based analytical assays including (but not limited to) Immunohistochemistry, Flow Cytometry, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assays, Protein Microarrays, Protein Electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, colorimetric, solid phase binding assays, vesicle co-sedimentation and co-flotation assays, and spectroscopy.
• Performs a variety of routine and specialized microscopic analysis including (but not limited to) Compound Light, Contrast, Fluorescence, dissecting, Digital, Electron, and Scanning Probe microscopy.
• Performs a variety of sample preparations using blood, tissue, body fluids, etc., including tissue and cell cultures, histology sample preparations (but not limited to) cryo blocks, paraffin inclusion, and generation of tissue slices.
• Performs blood and histology slide preparation, fixation, staining and conducts gross and microscopic examinations
• Assist Principal Investigator/staff scientist with surgical, veterinary, laboratory and scientific procedures as defined per approved protocols. Assist and/or perform a full range of surgical, laboratory, veterinary and scientific procedures. Monitor, assess, track and record health status of animals prior to, during, and after treatment and surgery according to approved protocols under the guidance of the Primary Investigator and Veterinary Staff. Provide daily assessments on animals and analgesics to the Primary Investigator and Veterinary Staff. Assist with animal husbandry services and procedures in accordance with applicable regulations, guidelines and corporate policy and procedures. Assist in the necropsy, collection, and processing of sensory tissues and/or cells for storage, histology, molecular and cell biology analyses. Assist Veterinarian and Investigators in performing surgical and non-surgical treatments. Perform euthanasia under the guidance of the Veterinarian and/or Primary Investigator.
• Documents research findings and maintains data on molecular testing and assay failure rates, problems encountered, and solutions to those problems. Tabulates data and performs statistical evaluation of data for Quality Assurance. Performs quality control procedures IAW established laboratory protocols.
• Reviews and approves the quality and accuracy of the data produced in the laboratory for submission to senior scientist and/or research laboratory director. Reviews and analyzes results of research studies ensuring compliance with approved protocols and investigator needs.
• Collates data and documents validation studies on new testing procedures developed in the lab and participates in the development and evaluation of new testing equipment and/or techniques.
• Maintains assigned equipment by performing and documenting required daily checks, scheduling and/or performing preventive maintenance, and obtaining repairs as required according to established laboratory procedures. Maintain all required materials, space and supplies in the laboratory to ensure uninterrupted service and assists in researching and preparing orders for equipment and supplies required for laboratory operations.
• Provides training and technical/subject matter expertise for the lab in developing protocols for new assays or to improve current assays in the laboratory. Researches published protocols, reagents, and equipment, and adapts for use in the laboratory. Performs validation studies on new protocols. Writes or edits operating instructions for new or updated protocols. Instructs other laboratory personnel in the performance of new or updated protocols.
• Assists laboratory personnel in problem-solving when assays fail, equipment malfunctions, or contamination occurs. Teaches problem-solving steps to other laboratory personnel.
• Performs and documents competency assessments of personnel performing high complexity molecular testing, as delegated by the senior scientist and/or laboratory director.
• Participates in required hospital training, lab training, in-services and continuing research medical education programs.
• Present data to research colleagues, assist preparing research results for presentation in scientific journals, technical reports, and oral briefings for national and international scientific meetings in support of research protocols.
• Practices general laboratory safety, infection control and aseptic techniques for the safe handling of sharps, blood tissues, body fluids, etc., to include cleaning work areas and equipment adhering to infection control procedures, use of personal protective equipment and proper disposal of bio-hazardous waste.
• Complies with all applicable research laboratory local, state, federal, and DoD rules, regulations and laws.

Minimum Required Qualifications:

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Education: PhD. in biological sciences or equivalent related discipline with 1-3 years of specific technical experience in their Post Doc research -OR- MS in biological sciences with 8 years related experience

Experience:

• Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a related field
• Ability to operate research equipment requiring manual dexterity.
• Ability to handle research animals, wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and work in a Biosafety Level (BSL) 2 laboratory

Preferred Qualifications:

• BSL 3 or 4 laboratory experience
• Prior experience with a military medical agency

Additional Information:

Location: Work is on-site at the Keesler Medical Center in Biloxi, MS

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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