Position Purpose:

Are you ready to make a meaningful difference in national security? We're seeking an innovative, highly motivated, skilled biologist (MS or PhD level) to join our team in Charlottesville, Virginia. You will play a pivotal role in developing, testing and optimizing cutting-edge laboratory assays for pathogen detection, leveraging your expertise in molecular biology, DNA sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis. If you are passionate about applying your scientific knowledge and technical creativity to solve critical real-world challenges, we encourage you to apply!

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Design, develop, test and optimize novel laboratory assays for the detection and characterization of pathogens.

Independently design and execute laboratory experiments

Troubleshoot issues, solve difficult technical issues, and analyze data using industry best practices.

Directs and supports tests of complete units and components under operational conditions to investigate approaches for improving performance or other factors, or to obtain data for development, standardization, and quality control.

Perform DNA sequencing and conduct basic bioinformatic analysis of sequencing data.

Contribute to the development and maintenance of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Identify novel research directions and potential funding opportunities.

Maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and documentation.

Collaborate effectively with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers.

Present research findings at internal and external meetings.

Stay current with the scientific literature and advancements in the field.

Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and publications.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Master's degree (with 5+ years of relevant laboratory experience) or a PhD degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, or a related field.

Hands-on experience with DNA sequencing technologies, especially Nanopore systems, and a strong understanding of sequencing workflows.

Familiarity with basic bioinformatic tools and analysis pipelines for sequence data (e.g., sequence alignment, taxonomical classification, database searching).

Demonstrated expertise in standard molecular biology techniques, including PCR, qPCR, nucleic acid extraction, and gel electrophoresis.

Proven experience in the development, optimization, testing and validation of laboratory assays.

Experience working in a laboratory environment with a strong understanding of safety protocols and quality control procedures.

Excellent record-keeping and documentation skills.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Effective technical communication and collaboration skills.

Successful applicants may also have:

Experience working with infectious agents in a BSL-2 facility or additional experience in high-containment laboratory settings.

Experience with automation in laboratory workflows.

Development of or work with microfluidic handling systems.

Knowledge of regulatory requirements for diagnostic assays (e.g., CLIA, FDA).

Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, Python) and capabilities in bioinformatic analysis in a command line environment.

Experience with microbial genomics and phylogenetic analysis.

Prior experience in a public health or national security-focused research or development environment.

Experience using emerging AI tools or agentic AI systems to achieve specific objectives in a biology laboratory.

Experience in grant writing or technical report preparation.

Education/Experience:

M.S. or Ph.D. in molecular biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, clinical laboratory sciences, genetics, or microbial genomics

5+ years

Clearance/Certifications:

This position requires that the candidate be willing and able to complete a successful background screening for a security clearance. Candidates with an active security clearance will receive preference.

Working Environment:

This is a full-time, fully on-site position. This position primarily operates during standard business hours, with occasional needs for extended workdays or weekend work to meet project timelines. A significant portion of this role (approximately 50%) involves hands-on laboratory work. You should be comfortable spending extended periods standing while conducting experiments and sitting while working at a computer. The role may also require occasional domestic travel for conferences, trade shows, or research-related meetings. The ability to lift and carry light loads (under 25 lbs) without assistance is necessary.

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Signature Science, LLC

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