Microbiological Research Scientist

A-TEK operates at the nexus of mission-driven initiatives and innovative solutions, leveraging our extensive expertise across federal sectors. With a commitment to a digital-first approach, A-TEK enhances capabilities in application development, digital transformation, enterprise IT, and scientific services. Our offerings are crafted to modernize, automate, secure, and elevate the operations of our federal clientele, ensuring they remain at the forefront of a swiftly changing digital environment.

Our dedication is fueled by a commitment to meet our clients' needs and safeguard the well-being of the American populace. This commitment shapes our approach to nurturing our most vital asset – our workforce. A-TEK actively fosters the talent that propels our success and cultivates a creative, challenging, and mission-oriented work atmosphere for both current and prospective employees.

This role entails executing non-research biological science tasks utilizing microbiological and molecular methodologies, including, but not limited to, DNA extraction and real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) for the swift identification and characterization of potential pathogenic bacterial and viral threat agents.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing the receipt and processing of operational, Quality Assurance (QA), and proficiency test (PT) samples that may contain biological threat agents.
• Preparing necessary reagents and samples.
• Demonstrating familiarity with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
• Decontaminating workspaces, including Biological Safety Cabinets (BSCs), hoods/air boxes, equipment, and other items related to processing and analysis activities.
• Maintaining chain-of-custody (CoC) protocols.
• Interpreting analytical results.
• Entering data using computerized or computer-linked systems.
• Conducting routine equipment calibration, cleaning, assembly, and maintenance.
• Collecting, processing, and analyzing internal laboratory swipes/swabs for Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) and contamination monitoring.
• Ensuring proper disposal of biohazardous waste.
• Restocking and maintaining an adequate inventory of essential supplies.
• Assisting in BW Program logistics by conducting and documenting annual inventory of durable equipment and property procured by DHS.
• Performing QA/QC and acceptance testing of reagents in line with applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Laboratory Operations Quality Assurance Program Plan (QAPP).
• Adhering to QA/QC standards in accordance with Public Health Laboratory quality management systems and the QAPP.
• Maintaining documentation of records that demonstrate compliance with necessary training/retraining, competencies, and document reviews.
• Analyzing routine external QA samples following BW SOPs and QA Program guidelines.
• Ensuring proper archiving, storage, and shipping of samples.
• Following and adhering to established procedures and accepted practices in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, safety, security, and dress code policies, including DHS Safeguarding Sensitive but Unclassified (For Official Use Only) Information when working at government facilities.
• Preparing written and oral technical reports, addressing inquiries, and making recommendations to the Lead Biological Scientist for inclusion in comprehensive reports.
• Executing tasks with precision and confidence.
• Demonstrating proficiency in various testing methodologies, evaluating potential products and processes against unique environmental contexts, and meeting established deadlines.
• Availability for all work hours and readiness to respond in emergencies, including rotating weekends and some holidays.

Qualifications:

A Master's degree or Ph.D. from an accredited institution in microbiology, molecular biology, or related biological sciences is required, along with at least one (1) year of laboratory bench experience utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), aseptic techniques, and biological assays, and at least one (1) year of experience as a Senior Scientist or Team Leader of a laboratory team/project.

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution requires four (4) years of laboratory bench experience, including one (1) year of utilizing polymerase chain reaction (PCR), aseptic techniques, and biological assays, with at least one year of experience as a Team Leader/Senior Scientist. BSL-3 experience is highly desirable.

A-TEK, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or Vietnam era or other protected Veteran status.