Assay Development Scientist (Viral Neutralization/Automation) - NIH

Kelly Government Solutions is a strategic supplier and business partner to the federal government and its key suppliers. Through our partnership with the National Institutes of Health, Kelly Government Solutions offers administrative, IT, engineering, scientific, and healthcare professionals the opportunity to work with one of the most prestigious research organizations in the world.

We are currently seeking an Assay Development Scientist (Viral Neutralization / Automation) with the National Institutes of Health in Gaithersburg, MD.

This is a full-time, long-term contract position which offers :

• Competitive salary with comprehensive benefits package
• Opportunity to work at NIH, the world’s foremost medical research center
• Learn more about what Kelly can do for you at

POSITION SUMMARY :

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking an experienced and meticulous Assay Development Scientist (Viral Neutralization / Automation) to join our laboratory team, specializing in viral neutralization assays, cell culture, viral transfection, and immunological evaluations, specifically utilizing automated systems such as the Biomek system.

The successful candidate will manage a variety of biological samples and perform rigorous data analysis using statistical methods to identify correlations and trends.

Key responsibilities include developing and optimizing various neutralization assays, maintaining specimen samples, and ensuring laboratory compliance with Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) guidelines.

This role requires proficiency with automated liquid handling systems, data management programs, and the ability to work collaboratively within a BSL-2 laboratory environment.

The Biologist will contribute significantly to clinical trial evaluations and ensure high standards of accuracy and efficiency in all laboratory operations.

TASKS. The contractor shall :

• Perform routine cell culture using aseptic techniques and maintain documentation for multiple cell line types.
• Conduct reverse genetic rescues and pseudotype virus transfection propagations for large-scale assays.
• Evaluate human and animal samples in clinical trials through immunological methods.
• Analyze trial data using statistical methods to identify patterns and generate summary graphs.
• Perform data cleaning and preprocessing to ensure data quality.
• Develop and implement validation protocols for assays, including method, equipment, and process validation.
• Prepare and qualify laboratory reagents, documenting processes accurately.
• Safely handle and process sera and other biological samples for assays.
• Perform precise liquid handling using serological, single, and multichannel pipettes, as well as automated liquid handling systems.
• Optimize and execute various neutralization assays on multiple platforms, including automated systems like Biomek i7 and Integra AssistPlus.
• Train analysts in assay protocols, especially those required in a GCLP environment.
• Schedule and conduct preventative maintenance on laboratory equipment following GCLP requirements.
• Follow SOPs to test samples in an organized, aseptic, high-throughput manner.
• Maintain rapid turnaround times for specimen samples while upholding accuracy standards.
• Manage supplies and reagents for scheduled tests and adapt to changes in schedule as needed.
• Comply with GCLP guidelines and maintain accurate records.
• Wear appropriate PPE in a BSL-2 laboratory and properly utilize various laboratory equipment.
• Store clinical samples using dry ice, freezers, and liquid nitrogen tanks, following safety protocols.
• Communicate effectively with management and external collaborators.

REQUIREMENTS. The contractor must have :

• Bachelor’s degree (BS) with a minimum of 3 years of experience in a BSL-2 laboratory. PhD and additional industry experience strongly preferred.
• Strong experience with viral neutralization assays.
• Strong experience in a GCLP environment and expertise with Beckman Coulter automated liquid handling software like SAMI and Biomek.
• Experience with cell culture and viral transfections.
• Proficient in computer and data management programs such as LIMS, CQMS, and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to work both collaboratively and independently.
• Proficient in CQMS, LabKey, and Prism GraphPad software.

When you apply, please know a Kelly Government Solutions Recruiter will review your resume and will contact you directly, if your skills and experience match the requirements of this position.

Due to the high volume of inquiries, we regret that we cannot accept phone calls. Even if you aren’t contacted for this position, you are still part of our talent network.

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