The Molecular Characterization Laboratory (MoCha) is part of Leidos Biomedical Research's Clinical Research Directorate (CRD) at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research. The MoCha Laboratory is responsible for providing high-level research in support of the NCI-Cancer Diagnostics Program (CDP) within the Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis (DCTD). MoCha is charged with the development and application of genomic assays for use in medical research and diagnostics for DCTD sponsored national extramural clinical trials. KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES Performs nucleic acid extractions, clinical NGS assays, genomics research and/or assay development in collaboration with others for projects Makes detailed observations, analyzes data and interprets results Exercises independent judgment in developing and/or modifying methods and techniques for solving scientific problems Performs molecular assays by adherence to SOPs Maintains essential laboratory supplies and monitors equipment for optimum performance Develops new assays and applies the methods/assays utilizing sound scientific judgement Writes SOPs and performs formal reporting of research data, including presentations and/or scientific publications Maintains knowledge of the most recent literature and scientific presentations relevant to projects May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals May be responsible for identifying patentable inventions May act as principal investigator in conducting own experiments BASIC QUALIFICATIONS This is a dual level requisition. It may be filled at either a Research Associate I or Research Associate II level depending on years of relevant experience. Research Associate I Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for US equivalency In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of two (2) years of experience with next generation sequencing library creation and sequencing and/or molecular biology techniques Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance Research Associate II Possession of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for the required education). Foreign degrees must be evaluated for US equivalency In addition to educational requirements, a minimum of five (5) years of experience with next generation sequencing library creation and sequencing and/or molecular biology techniques Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience working in a CLIA, CAP, or ISO accredited laboratory Experience with nucleic acid extractions Experience in NGS genomic profiling assays (ie whole exome sequencing and RNA sequencing), digital PCR, nanostring, microarray Experience in genomic assay development and workflow automation Familiarity with clinical oncology studies and other protocol-driven clinical research EXPECTED COMPETENCIES Proficient with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access) Strong technical skills in molecular biological and genomic assays Ability to independently evaluate the suitability and quality control of research or production assays or tests, develop and follow SOPs, and analyze and report data Ability to track information in a large cohort of samples and monitor progress of multiple projects Adequate computer skills to document, organize, and present experimental data Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing JOB HAZARDS OR REQUIREMENTS Candidate will be working with or have the potential for exposure to animal(s) and/or animal material(s) Candidate will be working with or have the potential for exposure to infectious material(s) or Other Potentially Infectious Materials (OPIM), requiring medical clearance and immunization in accordance with protocol requirements Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) | Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran (M/F/D/V) | Drug Free Workplace (DFW)