This position works under occasional supervision. Assignments are at the specialized scientific research level requiring independent judgment. Assist in publishing articles and papers; Supervises and trains lower level classifications, assigned lab technicians, and students. Sets up and operates complex scientific apparatus.

Daily Operations

• Performs independent research and assists with other research projects.  Plans, designs, and implements research projects. 
• Prepares and maintains culture media and reagents, grows cultures (cells, viruses, etc.)
• Performs library research; prepares compounds; interprets experimental test data; cuts, stains and mounts specimens.  May perform research with radioactive elements.
• Compiles, processes and analyzes data. 
• Documents research procedures and results according to department guidelines.
• Develops reports from research data gathered; maintains reports and records; codes data for electronic data processing; inputs and retrieves data via computer; analyzes, interprets and verifies data.
• Conducts advanced research in particular field of knowledge and assists with publishing data in professional journals. 
• Writes, reviews and edits various materials for publication.  Researches articles from various sources.
• Sets up and operates various scientific apparatus: scintillation counter, centrifuge, spectrometer, gamma counter, microscopes, homogenizers, etc.
• Develops revises, and recommends new laboratory or research project operating policies and procedures.
• Attends and participates in seminars and lectures to remain abreast of current trends and developments in related research.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

                                                                                                             

Required Skills

• Possess comprehensive knowledge of research laboratory operating policies, procedures and scientific methodology, including ability to operate and maintain research tools, instruments and equipment.
• Thorough knowledge of the use and preparation of culture media, chemicals, reagents, and the ability to perform a variety of laboratory procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to express ideas clearly and concisely orally and in writing, including ability to analyze and extract data from conversation and documents for research projects.
• Ability to independently conduct research following established department guidelines.
• Strong supervisory skills and ability to effectively train and evaluate personnel on laboratory research methods and procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills necessary to develop and maintain effective working relationships internally and externally.
• Ability to operate PC software and other office technology.

Required Education and Experience

A PhD (Biochemistry/Biomedical Sciences/Microbiology/Molecular Virology). Prior postdoctoral experience is not required.  Person will require an in-depth knowledge in the field of molecular biology, particularly on molecular virology is a plus. Experience with general molecular biology techniques (cloning, DNA analysis, PCR, etc), immunoassays (ELISA, Western blot), cell culture, and microscopy techniques are required.