Post Masters - Biological Detection and Forensics

To apply, please follow the link http://jobs.pnl.gov/ and search for Reference Number 115594.

 

 

Post Masters – Biological Detection and Forensics

Chemical and Biological Sciences Group

National Security Directorate

 

 

JOB DESCRIPTION

 

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory's 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 of 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 tams 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.

 

Primary job responsibilities will include supporting ongoing biodetection and forensics research in the following areas: 1) sample preparation and extraction for the application of analytical methods (e.g., GC and LC separations, isotope ratio mass spectrometry, MALDI mass spectrometry, FTIR, etc) 2) conducting automated sample preparation and biodetection experiments, 3) culturing microorganisms and doing molecular analysis (such as TaqMan PCR), 4) recording g data and procedures in a laboratory notebook, 5) writing documents that are clear and concise. The successful candidate must exhibit sufficient technical knowledge to perform routine assignments, demonstrate the ability to operate basic laboratory equipment and follow standard procedures.

 

Other responsibilities will include performing traditional on-line research to review journal articles and other literature, conducting standard as well as nonstandard tasks under close supervision and guidance of more experienced staff, while keeping his/her supervisor informed regularly on status of work.

 

The ideal candidate will be able to maintain high quality standards and attention to detail while supporting several projects at one time.

 

 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

 

Candidates must have received a Masters degree within the past two years from an accredited college or university.  Minimum overall GPA of 3.0 required.

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

 

Candidate resumes must demonstrate the following minimum requirements in order to be considered:

 

· Masters degree in Biology, Chemistry, Bioengineering, or related field.

· Excellent written and oral communication skills.

· Performed traditional on-line research, review of journal articles and other literature.

· Demonstrated self-motivation while being able to work in a team environment with other highly motivated individuals.

· Demonstrated high motivation for success and the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

 

 

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

 

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and supports diversity in the workplace.  All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital or family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information.

 

 

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 115594.