"Associate Research Scientist (PREP0003769)"

General Description

Assay development for cell-free expression systems. PREP Research Associate. This position is part of the National Institute of Standards (NIST) Professional Research Experience (PREP) program. NIST recognizes that its research staff may wish to collaborate with researchers at academic institutions on specific projects of mutual interest, thus requires that such institutions must be the recipient of a PREP award. The PREP program requires staff from a wide range of backgrounds to work on scientific research in many areas. Employees in this position will perform technical work that underpins the scientific research of the collaboration.

Supports the Cellular Engineering Group and NIST Engineering Biology Program by advancing measurement assurance for cell-free systems from diverse samples, including reconstituted and microbial samples. Leads the development of a suite of characterization assays for cell-free systems. Provides guidance for and assists in the automation of reagent preparation, cell-free reaction assembly, and, for using NIST Living Measurement Systems Foundry (LMSF) or other laboratory automation. Leads the design of experiments and performs the analysis of experimental and simulation data, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses. Documents and manages manual and automated laboratory protocols, data, and analyses. Regularly presents and discusses progress with the larger organization. Represents NIST at national and international meetings to engage with stakeholders. Leads and contributes to the preparation of technical protocols, reports, and manuscripts detailing methods and results to translate measurement capabilities to stakeholders.

Plans and carries out difficult and complex assignments in a scientific, engineering, mathematics, or information technology discipline with limited supervision. Develops new methods, approaches, and procedures usually in cooperation with coworkers or advisors. Works with peers and others to develop resolutions to complex or challenging issues and provide recommendations for improvements to meet program objectives. Ensures work is carried out safely in a well-maintained laboratory environment. Completed work is expected to have a sound overall approach and effectively meet stated requirements. Work impacts the technical planning, completion, and direction of major scientific, mathematical, engineering, or information technology projects.

The work will entail:

Key responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Participating in horizon scanning exercises for strategic planning of the technical program.
• Project planning and overseeing the execution of projects, in consultation with the larger organization.
• Developing assays to characterize the performance of cell-free reactions.
• Investigating experimental and analytical means to support measurement assurance for cell-free systems.
• Assisting with the automation of methods for preparation of cell-free lysates, cell-free reagents, cell-free reaction assembly, and assaying cell-free systems and their performance.
• Analyzing heterogeneous data sources, including uncertainty and other statistical analyses.
• Presenting results at internal meetings, as well as meetings with external stakeholders.
• Ensuring that results, protocols, software, and documentation have been archived or otherwise transmitted to the larger organization.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. degree in chemical engineering, bioengineering, cell biology, chemistry, physics, synthetic biology, or a related field.
• 5 years of relevant experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.