Description
Vitalant Research Institute is currently seeking a Staff Scientist II to direct the the Molecular Transfusion Core (MTC). This position will function as a detail-oriented molecular biologist with experience in real-time PCR assay development/optimization and next-generation sequencing.

This role will lead and manage the work of this mission-essential core laboratory at Vitalant Research Institute (VRI). The MTC laboratory specializes in design and performance of molecular assays for nucleic acid detection and quantification. The MTC Staff Scientist II directs and mentors a team of 3 to 5 research staff, is responsible for oversight of daily operations, and is the leader of innovation within the core.

The MTC Staff Scientist II works with VRI investigators, other core lab leaders, and research administration to prepare research proposals, develop collaborations, lead authorship on abstracts and journal manuscripts, and present research findings. The MTC Staff Scientist II reports to the Senior Investigator, Viral Pathogenesis at Vitalant Research Institute.The MTC centralizes the process of DNA and RNA extraction and quantification, primer and probe design, nucleic acid amplification, nucleic acid sequencing, and data analysis, particularly for large multicenter research studies.

The MTC currently has one Hologic transcription mediated amplification (TMA) Panther platform, and one Grifols TMA Panther platform. In current projects, both instruments are used for detection and/or quantification of HIV, HCV, HBV, WNV, DENV, ZIKV, babesia, malaria and other agents of concern for blood safety. Developing and expanding VRI's capacity in single cell sequencing is a current priority, and the MTC Staff Scientist II will have access to the 10X Genomics Chromium iX, Bio-Rad ddSEQ, and Mission Bio Tapestri instruments at VRI to implement single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, DNA-seq and multi-omics protocols.

RequirementsEducation and ExperiencePh.D. and Post-Doctoral training in molecular biology, cell biology, virology, or a related scientific field.Lab management and supervisory experience are preferred.

Demonstrated experience with molecular assay design and performance.Experience with large, multicenter research studies preferred.Three years as Staff Scientist or equivalent position required.

To include:Five English language first author publications in PubMed database or career development award required.Previous supervisory experience required.UsThe Vitalant Research Institute (VRI) is dedicated to advancing blood safety world-wide through scientific research, education and the promotion of evidence-based policies.

VRI, an integral part of Vitalant, is the premier transfusion medicine research institute in the US focused on scientific and policy advances relevant to transfusion therapy and blood product availability, with particular focus on mechanisms underlying and prevention of infectious and immunological complications of transfusions. VRI contributes to and engages other Vitalant divisions in research, policy development and application of new practices.Vitalant is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence.

Through our DEI strategic plan, we create opportunities for employees of all backgrounds to feel valued, seen and heard. We believe this mission drives creativity and innovation, as employees experience an environment conducive to personal growth and career development. EEO/Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans Our organization is an equal employment/affirmative action employer.

If you need accommodation for any part of the employment process because of a medical condition or disability, please send an e-mail to Careers@vitalant.org to let us know the nature of your request. For more EEO information about applicant rights click here Employee Type: Full-Time.