Asst. Principal Investigator, Electron Microscopy Job at Battelle National Biodefense Inst

Battelle National Biodefense Inst Fort Detrick, MD 21702

BACKGROUND

The National Biodefense Analysis and Countermeasures Center (NBACC) is a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) federal laboratory sponsored by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate and operated by the Battelle National Biodefense Institute, LLC (BNBI).


PRIMARY FUNCTION


Works with a team of scientists in the National Bioforensic Analysis Center (NBFAC), to perform light and electron microscopy techniques for the identification and characterization of forensic samples, materials science samples, and biological materials from Biological Safety Levels (BSLs) 2, 3 and 4 laboratories. Additional characterization of using Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy in the Scanning Electron Microscope and Raman spectroscopy identification and mapping. The function of this position is at the intersection of materials science and biological science, utilizing many different types of light microscopy and electron microscopy to characterize forensic samples.

MINIMUM REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Requires a PhD (or equivalent) in a scientific discipline or engineering, and less than 2 years related experience; may include post doctoral experience.
  • Experience in the preparation and processing samples for scanning and transmission electron microscopy.
  • Experience in the operation and troubleshooting of scanning and transmission electron microscopes, as well as Raman and fluorescence microscopes.
  • Proficiency and clarity of oral and written communications are essential.
  • Exemplary organizational skills with a proven track record of working effectively both independently and as a team player.
  • Knowledge or experience with biocontainment facilities and procedures, laboratory safety, biosurety, and decontamination desirable.
  • Skills and experience to support laboratory activities and work in accordance with NBACC’s management system (e.g., ISO).
  • Must be a citizen of the United States, able to obtain and maintain an interim secret clearance leading to a top-secret clearance, suitability for DHS, and a favorable adjudication of the Department of Justice (DoJ) for select agent access.
  • Participation in the Immunization Program, Medical Surveillance Program, and enrollment in the Personnel Reliability Program (PRP) is required.
  • May be required to participate in NBACC’s alternative work and/or on-call schedule, dependent upon business needs.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Prepares images and analyzes forensic samples using light and electron microscopy as well as Raman spectroscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Provides high quality work within tight time constraints.
  • Operation of a focused ion beam scanning electron microscope, including ion milling.
  • Participates in the implementation and maintenance of the ISO 17025 Quality Management Systems (QMS). Reviews NBFAC data to ensure proper quality control.
  • Provides technical support to multiple projects simultaneously and applies knowledge and skills to complete a wide range of tasks.
  • Works on assignments requiring considerable judgment and initiative and may serve as a project technical lead, Laboratory Space Manager, and/or Biological Select Agents and Toxins (BSAT) designee.
  • Provides mentorship and training to staff dependent on subject matter expertise.
  • Assures projects are performed in compliance with all regulatory requirements and operational capability of assigned lab space to include maintenance of CDC select agent registration and ISO accreditation.
  • Assures projects are performed in compliance with all regulatory requirements and operational capability of assigned lab space to include maintenance of CDC select agent registration and ISO accreditation.
  • Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.
  • Receives no instruction on routine work and general instruction on new assignments.
  • Ability to work on problems of diverse scope in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors, with expert knowledge of complex scientific principles and concepts.
  • Ability to formulate scientific hypothesis and demonstrate technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought.
  • Maintains a safe work environment by participating in specialized training and review of safety manuals and SOPs.
  • Identifies departures from the QMS and initiates actions to investigate and prevent such occurrences.
  • Provides analysis, opinions and interpretation, and issues reports.
  • Develops, optimizes, and validates new or modified methods and procedures.
  • Ensures competence of staff to operate specific equipment or perform tests (may issue Authorizations).
  • Prepares necessary SOPs, work instructions and other materials required to maintain the QMS under the ISO 17025 Standard.
  • Maintains and evaluates records of analysis and reviews laboratory results, plans, and reports.
  • Ensures that equipment, reagents, and supplies are maintained and used properly.
  • Directs, prioritizes, schedules, and provides technical expertise to staff to conduct work.
  • Maintains appropriate records.
  • Performs other assigned duties.

BNBI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.



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