Scientist - CDC

GDIT has an opportunity for a Scientist supporting research, diagnostics, and surveillance activities for a prospective client with the CDC in Atlanta GA.  In this role you will be required to perform routine and non-routine laboratory tasks supporting daily laboratory operations.  You will be expected to work with only general guidance from technical advisors and be able to develop and execute to schedule approved study plans. In conjunction with other staff and technical advisors, you will be expected to identify opportunities for continuous improvement in methods and processes.  You will be expected to stay up to date with current and emerging scientific trends relevant to your job functions.  .  You should be comfortable working in a fast paced and dynamic environment while able to manage multiple and sometimes competing priorities.  These positions require a BS degree (or equivalent in education and experience) and include opportunities for individuals with backgrounds in Biology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Virology, and other related life science backgrounds.  Incumbents will be a member of a diverse small team. The ideal candidates will have a working knowledge of compliance with CLIA, ISO, and other industry standards and best practices for working in a regulated laboratory environment.  Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.  The position is located in Atlanta, Georgia.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine laboratory diagnostics and surveillance methods and analysis in accordance with approved protocols and according to planned schedule to monitor circulating pathogens.
• Summarizes analysis and study outcomes in a timely manner and communicates to diverse stakeholders using clear and concise written and verbal mechanisms.
• Perform routine and non-routine troubleshooting of analytical methods that are not performing within specification; provide recommendations for improvement; and implement approved enhancements.
• Conduct calibration and maintenance of laboratory instruments according to approved schedule and procedures.
• Maintain all required inventory logs, sample logs, test records, laboratory notebooks, instrument logs, maintenance logs, and methods records as required by regulatory requirements and client policies.
• Participate in Quality Assurance/Quality Control activities including performance of reagent and supply validation; instrument validation; and quality control results review.
• Ability to work with minimal direct supervision.
• Collaborate with team members on method, process, and test procedures to affect a culture of continuous improvement
• Adhere to all federal regulations regarding the handling of clinical information
• Adhere to adhere to CLIA practices as well as OSHA and organizational safety requirements if required.
• Comply with all client and GDIT requirements for laboratory safety and security
• Strong communication (written and oral), computer, scientific, and organizational skills.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.

Required Skills

• BS Degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, virology, bioinformatics, immunology or related discipline and at least 3 plus (or equivalent in education and experience).
• Broad technical expertise and hands on experience in diagnostics specifically RT-PCR and sterile cell culture (mammalian cell lines) using methods and techniques from one or more of the following disciplines, including biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, microbiology, virology, immunology or related disciplines.
• Experience with serology or similar laboratory tests (e.g. ELISA)
• Track record of successful execution of scientific inquiry, data analysis, documentation, and reporting/communication of outcomes.
• Experience working in BSL2 or higher laboratory including use of appropriate aseptic techniques
• Ability to follow safety procedures relating to handling of human and animal samples and pathogens
• Ability to obtain and hold public trust clearance as required for the specific position

Preferred Skills

• MS with 2 years relevant experience
• Assistance in working with animals, specifically ferrets and mice.
• Demonstrated expertise and experience using methods and techniques from one or more of the following disciplines, including biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioinformatics, microbiology, virology, immunology or related disciplines.
• Experience working in the Public Health sector, ideally in the area of infectious disease.
• Working knowledge of laboratory and safety regulations including CLIA, ISO, and/or OSHA standards

We are GDIT. The people supporting some of the most complex government, defense, and intelligence projects across the country. We deliver. Bringing the expertise needed to understand and advance critical missions. We transform. Shifting the ways clients invest in, integrate, and innovate technology solutions. We ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter. We are there. On the ground, beside our clients, in the lab, and everywhere in between. Offering the technology transformations, strategy, and mission services needed to get the job done.

GDIT is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other protected class.