Biological Science Technician

$45,146 - $97,925/Yr

National Institute Of Standards And Technology - Gaithersburg, MD

Part-time,Full-time - Entry Level

Onsite - Gaithersburg, MD

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Biological Science Technician position at the Department of Commerce's Biomolecular Measurement Division involves performing laboratory tasks related to cell culture, PCR experiments, and DNA/RNA extractions. The role supports NIST's Biomanufacturing Measurement Services and requires adherence to safety protocols while maintaining accurate records of experiments. This is a full-time, term position with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine cell culture maintenance tasks, including media changes and passaging, following established protocols.
• Assist with basic PCR experiments, such as preparing reaction mixtures and operating thermocyclers, under the guidance of a senior researcher.
• Perform DNA/RNA extractions from a limited range of sample types using commercially available kits and established protocols.
• Maintain accurate records of experiments and results.
• Adhere to laboratory safety protocols and maintain a clean working environment.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and general lab supplies/consumables.
• Seek guidance from senior technicians or researchers when encountering unfamiliar procedures or problems.
• Support NIST's Biomanufacturing Measurement Services by independently performing complex cell culture techniques, including cell line characterization.
• Design and execute PCR experiments, including primer design and optimization.
• Independently carry out protein expression protocols, including monoclonal antibody (mAb) purification from mammalian cell lines.
• Perform and optimize DNA/RNA extraction protocols for various sample types and research needs.
• Analyze DNA/RNA quality and quantity.
• Troubleshoot experimental issues and optimize protocols.
• Contribute to the development of new laboratory procedures.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, contributing to research reports and publications.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
• Specialized experience for ZT-II: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-4 level, or a bachelor's degree with relevant coursework, or equivalent combination of experience and education.
• Specialized experience for ZT-III: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-8 level, or two years of graduate education or a master's degree in a related field, or equivalent combination of experience and education.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with advanced laboratory techniques in molecular biology.
• Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and equipment maintenance.

Benefits

• Paid parental leave
• Paid vacation
• Sick leave
• Family-friendly leave
• Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families
• Back-up child care program
• Child and elder-care resources
• On-site childcare center
• Wellness programs
• Fitness center
• Employee assistance programs