Under direct supervision of Research Scientist 1.

Perform high-complexity laboratory testing, which may include real-time PCR for microbial identification and characterization, automated DNA extraction and/or analyses, gene sequencing or whole genome sequencing.  Perform testing within standards set by regulatory agencies, which may include Select Agent regulation 42 CFR Part 73, New Jersey's Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Food & Drug Administration (FDA) or Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA).

Assist with research and development of methods/protocols to test food samples potentially contaminated with unknown biological pathogens (select agents), such as Francisella tularensis, Burkholderia sp., Brucella sp., Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis, and Ricin toxin, for the FDA’s Laboratory Flexible Funding Model (LFFM) Program.

Provide technical and functional support to leadership for the implementation, operation, and troubleshooting of sophisticated analytical instrumentation. Interact with instrument and reagent vendors for routine and emergency service needs.

Prepare sound, accurate reports relating to research, grant, and other activities containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations.  Perform analysis of data and preparation of reports for presentation at internal and external meetings.

Develop and maintain liaison with state, federal, academic, and other partners to ensure Program remains up-to-date. Review and analyze publications and other documents pertaining to current research developments and disseminates information to staff.

Assist in validating and implementing new microbiological, molecular and immunological test methods and operates and maintains analytical scientific instruments utilized for molecular and microbiological analyses.

Interprets analytical data, submit technical recommendations/results, and prepare accurate testing reports containing technical findings and conclusions.

Participates in the installation, testing and maintenance (daily/weekly/biannual/annual) of laboratory acquired analytical instruments.

Will be required to learn new analytical testing methodologies to provide testing (microbiological, molecular) supports for other PHEL units for any kind of Public Health Emergencies and epidemiological outbreaks.

PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO CANDIDATES WITH THE FOLLOWING KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

EDUCATION:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master of Science degree in microbiology or molecular biology or other appropriate biological discipline.

EXPERIENCE:

Two (2) years of experience in microbiological or molecular biology analysis or research.

NOTE:  A Doctorate in a microbiological or molecular biology discipline may be substituted for the experience indicated above.

OR

EDUCATION:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology or other appropriate biological discipline.

EXPERIENCE:

Three (3) years of experience in microbiological analysis or research; one (1) year of which must be in the operation of technical and complex instrumentation used in microbiological or molecular biology based analysis including but not limited to Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization-Time of Flight mass spectrometry ((MALDI-TOF MS); Real-Time-PCR instruments; Next Generation Sequencing instruments; fluorescent microscopes; high-throughput ELISA or NAAT instrumentation.

NOTE: Appointees may be required to perform physical activities such as lifting, carrying, and standing for an extended period of time.

NOTE: Appointees may be required to get vaccinations or submit vaccination records.