Join the HJF Team!

The Research Assistant I is to perform research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff and solves less complex problems in carrying out research projects in a laboratory environment. This is the first of four levels within the Research Assistant series. 

The Research Assistant I must be able to interact and communicate effectively with team members and other investigators in the institute, perform specialized laboratory research using in vitro cells and in vivo animal models. Responsible for research and/or development in collaboration with others for projects.   Provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical, generate and summarize preliminary data to assist principal investigator in grant applications, presentations at scientific meetings and publication in peer reviewed journals.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

This position will be in support of the Radiation Countermeasure Program at the Scientific Research Department at the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute / Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, MD.

Essential Job Duties                                                                    90% of time

• Performs laboratory research projects using animal models and mammalian cells including collection, analysis and organization of data. Makes detailed observations about experiments.  Provides data analysis and interpretation.
• Post-hire requirement: Receive IACUC training and pass the examination. Works with other technicians on animal experiments including track the animal clinical observations, mortality, body weight and data record in the daily base.
• Analyzes samples using basic molecular and cell biology knowledge and methods.
• Prepares technical reports, summaries, and protocols.
• Maintains clear and accurate laboratory records, inventories and logbooks.
• Establishes and maintains databases for research projects.
• Maintains compliance with established laboratory safety and other procedures.
• Provides quality control, trouble shooting and the maintenance of specialized reagents and equipment.

Nonessential Job Duties                                                            10% of time

• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and keeps the laboratory area clean.
• Assists with training laboratory staff, students and visiting scientists as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Environment 

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• Minimum of 0-2 years experience required

Job Specifications:

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:   Knowledge of medical laboratory basic and willing to learn techniques in animal handling, injections, blood and tissue collections, as well as cell and molecular biology techniques; ability to follow basic instructions; good communication and analytical skills.

Applicants should have knowledge of using public medical research database and programs. Maintain detailed documentation of research projects. Maintain laboratory standard operating procedures and records of quality control in accordance with established requirements. Experience with data compilation and analysis using standard software programs (e.g., Microsoft Excel).

Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check

Physical Capabilities

• Lifting: Requires lifting materials up to 10 lbs.
• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods

All HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable.  Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer. 

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.