Molecular Research Technician I at Cherokee Nation · Silver…

Summary: Cherokee Nation is a trusted partner for federal clients, focused on solving complex challenges. The Molecular Research Technician I will assist in performing molecular biology experiments to characterize multi-drug resistant organisms, working under supervision and maintaining laboratory safety. Responsibilities: - Serve as a laboratory technician working under the supervision of a principal investigator (Research/Clinical Scientist) or laboratory manager/supervisor from the same company in performing laboratory procedures and experiments as required for the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of MDRO - Conduct molecular biology experiments with precision according to protocols, including but not limited to nucleic acid isolation, bacterial work, and next-generation sequencing with limited supervision - Implement research protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) as well as follow oral instructions for the molecular laboratory - Provide data and results to the lead molecular research technician and/ or laboratory manager/supervisor from the same company on time - Coordinate with senior molecular research technicians from the same company on all pertinent issues related to the operation of the molecular laboratory - Perform experimental work, including serological assays, chemical assays, genetic and molecular biology procedures, and growth of solid and liquid cultures - Perform routine laboratory duties required for the smooth and safe operation of the 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 - Maintain a laboratory notebook in which accurate and complete records of laboratory work is maintained in accordance with accepted standards - Comply with occupational health and safety standards and other applicable regulations and guidelines which may include medical surveillance - Attend relevant seminars, scientific conferences and meetings to the MRSN - Demonstrate knowledge of WRAIR and MRSN operational and regulatory standards - Performs other job-related duties as assigned Required Qualifications: - An active Public Trust or the ability to obtain a Public Trust is required for consideration - AS or BS in Biology, Molecular Biology, or Microbiology - Proficiency with whole genome sequencing of bacterial samples - Foundational-level experience in the extraction of bacterial DNA and in the construction of DNA sequencing libraries - Foundational-level experience in the operation and maintenance of next-generation sequencing platforms, including instruments from Illumina and Oxford Nanopore - Foundational-level experience in the operation and maintenance of liquid handlers, including but not limited to Hamilton liquid handlers - Foundational-level experience with performing and interpreting real-time PCR data from bacterial samples - Ability to work in a fast-paced environment using critical thinking skills, adaptability and decisive judgement with minimal supervision - Excellent organization and communication skills and attention to detail - Demonstrate interpersonal skills, teamwork and ability to collaborate with multiple groups of people - Ability to overhead lift up to 50 pounds - Ability to perform work that requires frequent standing, walking, lifting, grasping and repetitive motion - Occasional stooping, squatting, pushing, pulling, climbing, and overhead lifting - Perform occasional duties on weekends if such duties are approved by both the COR and the contractor's program manager - Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal Preferred Qualifications: - 1-3 years of experience in molecular biology outside of an academic setting - 1-3 years of experience with next-generation platforms, including but not limited to Illumina or Oxford Nanopore instruments - 1-3 years of experience working in a high-throughput sequencing environment Required Skills: Molecular biology, Next-generation sequencing, Bacterial DNA extraction, DNA sequencing library construction, Illumina sequencing platforms, Oxford Nanopore sequencing platforms, Hamilton liquid handlers, Real-time PCR, Laboratory safety protocols Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, And other possible benefits as provided.