Associate Research Scientist (PREP0004151) Full-time

Associate Research Scientist

This position is part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Professional Research Experience Program (PREP). NIST recognizes that its research staff may want to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest and, therefore, requires those institutions to be recipients of a PREP award. The PREP program involves staff from a wide range of backgrounds conducting scientific research across various fields. Individuals in this position will perform technical work supporting the collaboration's scientific research.

Research Title: Viral Measurement Tools and Reference Materials

The work will entail:

• The Material Measurement Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology is seeking qualified persons (U.S. Citizens preferred) to contribute to cutting-edge research projects aimed at developing viral measurement tools and reference materials in service of expanding the NIST portfolio of microbial measurement assurance to better serve stakeholder. A successful applicant will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team working with cutting-edge technologies in the NIST Complex Microbial Systems Group. They will contribute to a growing program supporting technology development in the areas of biosurveillance and microbiome.
• Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
• Responsible for maintaining (onboarding, culturing, characterizing) a portfolio of diverse viruses (up to BSL-2) to meet varied stakeholder needs
• Perform viral and eukaryotic cell culture, plaque assays, optimization and develop of viral culture protocols
• Consult and work with stakeholders in the microbiome and pathogen detection communities
• Keep accurate and organized electronic records
• Present results of the work in the form of reports, manuscripts, oral presentations

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology, Virology, Microbiology or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant laboratory experience.
• Experience measuring cytopathic effect using plaque assays.
• Experience developing viral infectivity assays.
• Experience measuring the infectivity of non-cytopathic viruses.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.