Job Description

Overview

We are seeking a Microbiologist to support the Naval Health Research Center (NHRC), Operational Infectious Diseases (OID) Directorate . OID conducts ongoing, laboratory-based surveillance of US military populations in unique environments to quantify and study the etiology of infectious illnesses. Test specimens are collected from ongoing surveillance programs and from special investigations of febrile illnesses and pneumonia among military personnel or civilians (recruits, forces afloat, deployed forces, outbreaks of concern, and border populations). In addition to the utilization of portable, rapid assay technologies to identify pathogens in the field, test specimens and limited epidemiologic data, when approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB), are provided to the NHRC laboratory where diagnostics and, in some instances, in-depth pathogen characterization is conducted. Results are provided to sponsors, the Armed Forces Health Surveillance Center, local investigators and collaborators, and, when applicable, county health units to guide proper responses that ultimately affect both the readiness of US forces and the safety of public health.

CAMRIS International, LLC, is a dynamic medical research and development firm that achieves innovative solutions to health and development challenges through high-quality, cost-effective programs and research management services. We combine our proven systems with today’s most effective, evidence-based best practices. Our core practice areas include vaccine research, development, and production; microbiology and infectious disease research; biodefense; clinical research; global health security; and HIV/AIDS programs.

Our employees enjoy a collegial environment where individual contributions matter at all levels. At CAMRIS, you will notably improve the lives of people at home and abroad.

Responsibilities

Pathogen Research & Characterization

• Develops laboratory workflows and optimizes assays to perform surveillance of target pathogens, particularly for wastewater.
• Utilizes molecular biology techniques, including concentration/extraction, quantitative PCR, and sequencing, to identify and characterize microbial genomes of pathogens.
• Works with a multi-functional team to ensure project deliverables are met.
• Oversees technology transfer of completed assays to the operational laboratory surveillance team, including documentation of standard operating procedures, validation/verification planning, and end-user training.

Laboratory Management & Quality Control

• Ensures compliance with biosafety and biosecurity standards, especially when handling high-containment or potentially hazardous pathogens.
• Implements quality control measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of experimental data and laboratory procedures.

Collaboration & Research Support

• Collaborates with multidisciplinary research teams, including laboratory operations, immunologists, epidemiologists, and clinicians, to support infectious disease studies within the OID Directorate.
• Contributes to the design and implementation of research projects by providing microbiological expertise and ensuring proper experimental design and execution.
• Participates in field studies and operational research to monitor pathogen spread, assess environmental factors, and collect samples for microbiological analysis.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Analyzes and interprets microbiological data using advanced statistical and bioinformatics tools.
• Prepares scientific reports, manuscripts, and presentations for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Contributes to grant writing and funding proposals by providing scientific insights, research plans, and data analysis frameworks.

Qualifications

• PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• 1+ years of relevant experience in assay development and optimization, with a focus on infectious diseases.
• Proficiency in microbiological techniques, including microbial culture, pathogen isolation, molecular diagnostics (PCR, sequencing), and antimicrobial resistance testing.
• Strong understanding of assay development/optimization and data analysis.
• Experience with data analysis software, bioinformatics tools, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills for presenting complex scientific data to diverse audiences.
• US Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a T3/Secret Clearance.

Please submit your resume online at CAMRIS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability status, political affiliation, marital status, military status, or any other characteristic protected by any applicable federal, state, or local law.

CAMRIS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for individuals and families, FSAs, HSA, life and AD&D insurance, short- and long-term disability, legal services, voluntary hospital indemnity, critical illness and accident insurances, EAP, pet insurance, 401(k) with employer match and Roth option, tuition and professional reimbursement, public transportation support in the DMV area, a referral bonus program, vacation with tenure-based increases, PTO, 11 paid holidays, paid bonding leave, and paid supplemental short-term disability.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a secret-level background check, a requirement for this position under an active federal contract. The background check process may include, but is not limited to the following: (1) contacting your professional references; (2) verification of previous employment, education and credentials; (3) a criminal background check; (4) use/abuse of federally-controlled substances; and (5) a department of motor vehicle check. Candidates must be prepared to fully-complete any required background check questionnaire during initial onboarding.

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