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Job Description:

Ready to put your scientific expertise to work in detecting bio-threat agents domestically and across the globe? We are seeking a Biological Scientist to support and facilitate biological research for the rapid detection of infectious diseases of global importance and the enhancement of global disease surveillance for early pathogen detection and response. This position will help lead research projects in the fields of diagnostics/detection, virology, bacteriology, immunology, and host response to infection including the development of immunological reagents and assays. This position resides at Fort Detrick in Frederick, MD and will support the Biological Defense Research Directorate (BDRD) in the Microbiology and Immunology Department.

Biological Scientist II (Microbiology and Immunology

Responsibilities:

• Develop lateral flow immunoassays against bacterial, viral and biological toxin targets.
• Produce and distribute lateral flow assays based on customer demands.
• Conduct training for lateral flow assay end-users.
• Produce polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against a variety of biological threat agents.
• Produce affinity purified antibodies using antigen materials to include Biological Select Agents and Toxins (BSAT) or BSAT derivatives.
• Continually improve Quality Management System to meet applicable accreditation standards.
• Ensure laboratory operations at Biosafety Level (BSL)-2 and BSL-3 are conducted according to all Federal, DoD, State and local regulations.
• Develop and produce immunoassays for the detection of biological threat agents.
• Develop and produce immunoassays for conformance testing of purified antibodies.
• Conduct test & evaluation of current or new immunoassay platforms of interest to DoD and other Federal agencies.
• Conduct training on antibodies, immunoassay platforms, and immunoassays to end-users domestically and abroad.
• Assist with or lead research projects aimed to 1) discover and characterize viruses associated with emerging infectious diseases; 2) identification of biomarkers for infectious diseases; 3) develop immunomodulatory therapeutics for emerging viruses.
• Writing and editing scientific proposals and manuscripts.
• Leading and managing research projects to meet major milestones and deliverables.

Experience: 

• 5 years of practical experience in microbiology and immunology is considered essential
• Must possess a practical knowledge of basic and applied research, including experimental design and methods, and must have demonstrated the ability to perform competent research
• Must have demonstrated the ability to manage research projects, including training of other scientists, technicians, and support personnel, analyzing data, and writing reports
• Should have at least 5-10 years of deep experience in immunoassay development, antibody-based platform test and evaluation, and detection of bio-threat agents
• Must be able to pass all criteria for a Secret security clearance
• Must be able to pass all criteria for enrollment in a BPRP

Education:

• PhD degree in a biological science field

Minimum Clearance Required to Start:

Not Applicable/None

This position is part of our Federal Solutions team.

The Federal Solutions segment delivers resources to our US government customers that ensure the success of missions around the globe. Our intelligent employees drive the state of the art as they provide services and solutions in the areas of defense, security, intelligence, infrastructure, and environmental. We promote a culture of excellence and close-knit teams that take pride in delivering, protecting, and sustaining our nation's most critical assets, from Earth to cyberspace. Throughout the company, our people are anticipating what’s next to deliver the solutions our customers need now.

Salary Range: $72,900.00 - $127,600.00

We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their overall wellbeing, which is why we offer best-in-class benefits such as medical, dental, vision, paid time off, 401(k), life insurance, flexible work schedules, and holidays to fit your busy lifestyle!

Parsons is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

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