Post Doc RA - Biodetection System Development

To apply, please follow the link http://jobs.pnl.gov/ and search for Reference Number 114897.

 

 

Post Doc RA – Biodetection System Development

Chemical & Biological Sciences Group

Physical & Chemical Sciences

National Security Directorate

 

 

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's Chemical & Biological Sciences Group is searching for a Biodetection System Development Postdoctoral Fellow to become part of an established interdisciplinary research team developing automated systems for the concentration, purification, and detection of pathogens in large water samples. For example, this postdoctoral position will include the development of automated methods for the quantification and infectivity analysis of human noroviruses in water. 

 

The Chemical and Biological Sciences Group is an interdisciplinary group of approximately 60 biologists, chemists, physicists, and engineers that solve research and development challenges related to chemical and biological detection and forensics. Much of the work involves trace detection in complex samples including environmental, food, or biological samples, and is directed toward national security missions to prevent and counter acts of terrorism and the proliferation of weapons or mass destruction. Key challenges include: identifying the appropriate signatures, sample collection/preservation and preparation, development of detection and analysis technologies, and development of approaches and analytical methods for high confidence measurements. These challenges are addressed by three teams within the group: Biodefense, Trace Organic Analysis, and Optics and Infrared Sensing.

 

The research within the Biodefense Team is primarily focused on biodetection and bioforensics. Research areas in biodetection include: automated sample preparation for the trace detection of pathogens in complex samples, development of rapid methods for biodetection, development of new methods for the simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens, and the development of approaches for the discovery and analysis of biosignatures for the detection of host response. Research areas in bioforensics include: effective sample collection and preservation methods, sample preparation and extraction, the application of analytical methods (e.g., GC and LC separations, isotope ratio mass spectrometry, MALDI mass spectrometry, FTIR, etc), and integrated data analysis approaches for biological attribution.

 

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

 

Candidates must have received a PhD in bioengineering, environmental engineering, biology, microbiology or related field within the past five years from an accredited college or university.

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

·  Experience with bacterial and viral culture methods, including work with BSL2 level pathogens is highly desirable.

·  Experience with molecular biology analysis methods such as qPCR is highly desirable.

·  Experience in computer programming for system automation is highly desirable.

·  Experience and/or interest in the development of automated fluidic systems is required.

·  Cell culturing and sterile technique skills are desirable.

·  Knowledge of biological software tools, including primer design and alignment programs is highly desirable.

·  QA/QC protocol experience is highly desirable.

·  Ability to work independently is essential.

·  Good oral and written communication skills are necessary.

·  Analytical method development and optimization skills essential.

·  Ability to obtain a DOE security clearance is required.

 

*This is a limited term employment position for 1 year and extension possible for up to 3 years.  Assignment duration is based upon funding and individual performance.

 

 

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Applicants selected will be subject to a Federal background investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified matter in accordance 10 CFR 710, Appendix B.  All Security Clearance (L or Q) positions will be considered by the Department of Energy to be Testing Designated Positions which means that they are subject to applicant, random, and for cause drug testing.  In addition, applicants must be able to demonstrate non-use of illegal drugs for the 12 consecutive months preceding completion of the requisite Questionnaire for National Security Positions (QNSP).

 

 

ABOUT TRI-CITIES

 

http://www.visittri-cities.com/

 

The Tri-Cities started out with 3 main communities: Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland - but the phenomenal growth of neighboring West Richland has made the area more of a `Quad-City!` Located just hours from Seattle, WA and Portland, OR, the area is embraced by the beauty of a desert landscape and connected by the Columbia, Snake, and Yakima rivers.  The Tri-Cities offers a multitude of recreational, cultural, and historical activities and is a great place to visit and live. We're known for our premier golf courses, award-winning wineries, unique shopping, and abundant outdoor and water recreation. Click on the link above to learn more about the various communities. PNNL is located in Richland, WA.

 

 

To apply, please follow the link http://jobs.pnl.gov/ and search for Reference Number 114897.