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***This position is offering a $10,000 Sign-On Bonus***

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Cancer Genomics Research Laboratory (CGR) investigates the contribution of germline and somatic genetic variation to cancer susceptibility and outcomes in support of the NCI's Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), the world’s most comprehensive cancer epidemiology research group.  CGR is located at the NCI-Shady Grove campus in Gaithersburg, MD and operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc.  We care deeply about discovering the genetic and environmental determinants of cancer, and new approaches to cancer prevention, through our contributions to the molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic research of the 70+ investigators in DCEG.  Working in concert with epidemiologists, biostatisticians and basic research scientists in DCEG’s intramural research program, CGR provides the capacity to conduct genome-wide discovery studies and targeted regional approaches to identify the heritable determinants of various forms of cancer. This includes the design and analysis of high throughput studies using various types of “–omics” technologies such as array- and sequence-based genome-wide association studies, studies of tumor characteristics using integrated genomic data analysis, and molecular epidemiologic studies based on novel assays focused on the metabolome and microbiome.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

Within CGR, the Molecular and Digital Pathology Laboratory supports the generation of comprehensive data on histological and molecular profiling of tumors and their precursors including histology, various approaches for biomarker analysis, digital pathology and image analysis. This laboratory section is tightly integrated with existing CGR capabilities, including somatic genomic analyses and bioinformatics. We are recruiting for a Scientific Manager for the MDPL. The successful candidate will have responsibility for the day-to-day management of the MDPL and tasked with delivering high quality molecular and digital pathology services to support epidemiological cancer research at the DCEG. He/she must demonstrate scientific and technical leadership for the group and horizon scanning for future technologies, as well as establishing, maintaining and monitoring the key performance indicators of the facility.

• Responsible for day to day operations of the MDPL section within CGR
• Sets and maintains overall standards for the quality of service, technical reproducibility and accuracy
• Works seamlessly and collaboratively with research, LIMS, QA, project management, laboratory and bioinformatics resources at CGR in order to fully integrate new functions of molecular and digital pathology into the existing organization
• Advises researchers on selection and application of available MDPL technologies
• Ensures proper documentation of all experimental and analytical processes
• Collaborates with DCEG and CGR resources to identify, research and implement new techniques.
• Anticipates future customer requirements and develops service accordingly
• Works with project management staff to track progress and completion and communicate effectively with PI's
• Utilizes extensive knowledge of the technology to advise users and PI’s with respect to experimental design, implementing SOP’s, and determining best practices
• Interviews, selects, coaches, mentors, and develops staff

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or four (4) years relevant experience in lieu of degree.  Foreign degrees must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
• In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience, including two (2) years of experience in a manager capacity
• Experience with histopathology techniques, including histology sectioning, special stains, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence
• Biomarker analysis, digital pathology and image analysis
• Experience with tissue morphology of human tissue
• Experience with delivering highly complex scientific information to a broad range of researchers Proven ability to engage with a wide variety of stakeholders, including academics (internal and external research group leaders and their teams), technical staff, researchers
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Analytical skills to resolve problems that require basic scientific, mathematical, or technical principles
• Working knowledge of Windows-based computer operating systems and Microsoft office suite
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• PhD in a related field
• A minimum of six (6) years related biomedical experience, including 3+ years of experience supervising or leading teams or projects. Level of position commensurate with experience
• Experience with development of user requirements for a Laboratory Information Management System, including sample tracking and running workflows
• Assay development expertise, with proven experience in quantitative analysis techniques
• Experience with basic molecular biology techniques: RNA, DNA, protein purification, RNAse-free tissue handling of fixed and frozen biological material
• Experience in extraction of nucleic acids from a variety of starting materials, including fresh frozen and archival FFPE-derived tissues
• Experience with imaging software algorithms and understanding of the scientific validity of the analysis, statistical analysis and recognition of tissue features
• Experience with negotiation and influence with researchers, service providers, vendors
• Experience with managing, training and mentoring staff to work effectively as a team to deliver scientific research programs
• Experience with prioritization in a high-pressure environment

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations