Scientist I - Viral Diseases

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Scientist I execute established in vitro drug screening assays against Plasmodium parasites and other assays addressing department goals for antimicrobial (including malaria, bacteria, and/or viruses) drug discovery and development as needed. The successful applicant will handle collaboration exchanges, data/results analysis, generation of research reports and manuscripts for publication, along with opportunities for intra- and extramural presentations.

This position will be in support of Global Infectious Diseases, Integrated Pathogen Therapeutics Department at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), Viral Diseases Program (VDP).

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike.Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Conduct in vitro drug screening against Plasmodium liver stage parasites.
• Perform confirmatory dose-response assays and determine half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC).
• Apply basic molecular biology techniques for mechanistic or structural evaluations.
• Coordinate exchanges and communications with collaborative research partners.
• Analyze, curate, and transfer experimental data; maintain accurate records using internal LIMS systems.
• Track project progression and contribute to collaborative reports, presentations, and publications.
• Design and execute small-molecule screening assays for anti-hypnozoite drug discovery.
• Maintain and manage parasite cultures or infected mosquitoes for in vitro assays.
• Participate in project planning, including setting goals, timelines, and resource allocation.
• Ensure timely and budget-conscious achievement of project milestones.
• Prepare and present technical reports and experimental findings during project review meetings.
• Maintain a safe and compliant laboratory environment; attend required safety training.
• Represent the team at national scientific conferences, as needed.
• Develop and lead new, independent research projects in parasite or virus biology.
• Contribute to high-impact publications and future funding applications.

Education and Experience

• Doctorate Degree required.
• Minimum of 2-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated strong publication record in infectious disease research and drug discovery
• Preferred experience in:
  • Small molecule drug discovery.
  • Plasmodium pre-erythrocytic biology.
  • In vitro cell culture, especially with primary hepatocytes and hepatoma cell lines.
• Additional experience considered an advantage:
  • Working with mosquitoes and performing salivary gland dissections.
  • Conducting malaria liver-stage related assays.
  • Utilizing microscopy techniques.
• Key personal and professional attributes:
  • Ability to work independently with high self-motivation.
  • Strong critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $73,800-$97,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.