Research Assistant I - NeuroTrauma Department

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Research Assistant I to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series.

This position will be in support of OMUD/NeuroTrauma Department's research program at the Naval Medical Research Command (NMRC), located in Silver Spring, MD.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Participate in in vivo and basic laboratory procedures.
• Assist with/or perform surgical, behavioral and other experimental procedures in pre-clinical animal models in support of neurotrauma research - in particular impact and blast-induced traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Assist with/or perform operation of a blast shock tube.
• Perform real-time data acquisition using available technologies. This includes measurement of pressure profiles of blast generated by the shock tube, and continuous and automated as well as discrete monitoring of physiological parameters. The incumbent should be comfortable with operating and maintaining data acquisition programs.
• Assist with/or perform laboratory procedures including biospecimen collection and preparation, Western blots, ELISA, histology, etc.
• Assist with maintaining databases. Perform data entry for research projects ensuring that data is entered for analysis in a timely and efficient manner. Ensure that the confidentiality and security of data are maintained.
• Assist with data analysis and presentation.
• Assist with preparation of standard operating procedures, maintenance of laboratory records, and general upkeep of lab spaces.
• Laboratory management responsibilities include routine maintenance of laboratory equipment; managing scheduling of commonly used spaces/equipment; and compliance with departmental and institutional policies.
• Must be capable of handling multiple projects.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, neuroscience, or a relevant field.
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• The incumbent should have a general working knowledge of good laboratory practices.
• They should be comfortable with handling animals and working in animal and laboratory environment.
• Must be proficient in using Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and is expected to have a working knowledge of statistical analysis and image analysis programs.
• For application of specialized programs, the incumbent will be provided required training.
• Must be able to work in a team as well as independently.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Physical Capabilities

• Long periods of standing and sitting; intricate work with hands; handling specimens and various chemicals.

Work Environment

• Laboratory environment; may involve working with biohazards; may require working evenings and weekends. This position will take place primarily in an office setting.
• The incumbent must be available to work during the core working hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The remaining hours will be adjusted based on the nature of experiments.

Compensation

• The hourly pay range for this position is $19.33-$24.00. Actual hourly pay will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.