Research Technician, Extraction and Staging Laboratory, CGR in Rockville, MD

Description

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) investigates the contribution of germline and somatic genetic variation to cancer susceptibility and outcomes in support of the NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), the world's most comprehensive cancer epidemiology research group. CGR is located at the NCI-Shady Grove campus in Gaithersburg, MD and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. We care deeply about discovering the genetic and environmental determinants of cancer, and new approaches to cancer prevention, through our contributions to the molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic research of the 70+ investigators in DCEG. Working in concert with epidemiologists, biostatisticians and basic research scientists in DCEG's intramural research program, CGR provides the capacity to conduct genome-wide discovery studies and targeted regional approaches to identify the heritable determinants of various forms of cancer. This includes the design and analysis of high throughput studies using various types of “–omics” technologies such as array- and sequence-based genome-wide association studies, studies of tumor characteristics using integrated genomic data analysis, and molecular epidemiologic studies based on novel assays focused on the metabolome and microbiome. 

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

The Cancer Genomics Research (CGR) laboratory is a fast-paced, high throughput organization that supports histology, molecular and digital pathology, nucleic acid extraction, sample staging, genotyping, sequencing, and analysis for genetic and epidemiologic studies for the investigators within DCEG. We are recruiting for a Research Technician position within CGR's Extraction and Staging Laboratory that supports sample extraction, quantitation, and normalization of the extracted nucleic acid for all sequencing and genotyping efforts. The Research Technician position will focus on sample extractions from multiple types of human biospecimens, quality and quantity assessment of the extracted nucleic acids, and custom aliquoting of biospecimens to support internal and external assay requirements. The successful candidate will work seamlessly within the extraction, staging and aliquoting teams and will have responsibility for the day-to day execution of laboratory processes and applications including:

• Participate in all facets of the sample extraction and QC pipeline, including nucleic acid extraction from various sample types (BSL-1 and BSL-2), sample handling and quantification using multiple automation platforms and laboratory equipment
• Use of automated liquid handling robotics and additional methods in BSL-2+ controlled laboratory space to support biospecimen aliquoting tasks for both in house and outsourced assays
• Organization of samples, including sorting by tube type and relabeling as needed for automation workflows
• Support for sample inventory efforts, including freezer consolidation activities and preparation of samples for return to external collaborators and/or NCI Central Repository
• Use of LIMS for tracking all aspects of sample management
• Responsible for performing, documenting, and reporting results and deviations for a variety of procedures and assays in the laboratory, governed by SOPs
• React to any non-conformances or opportunities for improvement, by taking appropriate corrective actions in consultation with management, development team and other relevant staff members
• Ensure proper documentation of all laboratory processes performed in the laboratory and maintain equipment records
• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and maintain a clean work area
• Practice safe work habits, including complying with all safety, health and environmental rules and regulations
• Other duties as assigned and available

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of Bachelor's degree in a field related to Biomedical Research from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree.  Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency   
• No work experience required with a Bachelors degree
• Knowledge of DNA and RNA extraction, quality, and quantitative assessment of nucleic acid from a variety of biospecimen types
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Computer literacy (Microsoft Office products, general computer proficiency)
• Ability to apply routine mathematics to laboratory calculations
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• One to two years of relevant experience 
• Experience in nucleic acid extractions from human biospecimens and quantitation of DNA and RNA
• Familiarity with liquid handling robotics
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools such as Excel, Spotfire, Tableau
• Demonstrated attention to detail
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.