Laboratory Research Scientist

Job Details

Qualifications & Requirements

In order to qualify for a Laboratory Research Scientist, GS-0601, position you must have successfully completed a full 4 year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's degree or graduate/higher level degree with major study in an academic field related to the medical field, health sciences or allied sciences appropriate to the work of the position. (This degree must be from an educational program from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education at the time the degree was obtained). In addition, in order to qualify for a Laboratory Research Scientist, 0601 at the GS-11 level, you must have: A. completed 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or have a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a related field; OR B. at least 1 year of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 level in the Federal Government obtained in either the private or public sector, performing the following types of tasks: Performing laboratory or clinical research-support activities, including specimen handling and processing; Maintaining laboratory records, scientific documentation, and research data in accordance with established procedures; Assisting with quality assurance or quality control activities and resolving routine laboratory or data issues; Preparing reports, data summaries, or other technical materials to support laboratory and research operations; OR C. a combination of graduate education and experience that meets 100% of the qualification requirements for this position. In addition, in order to qualify for a Laboratory Research Scientist, 0601 at the GS-12 level, you must have at least one year of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-11 level in the Federal Government obtained in either the private or public sector, performing the following types of tasks: Independently planning and carrying out complex laboratory or clinical research-support assignments; Performing or coordinating specimen handling and processing, molecular or diagnostic laboratory support activities, quality assurance procedures, and scientific documentation; Evaluating laboratory discrepancies or operational deficiencies, recommending corrective actions, and adapting laboratory methods, workflows, or data processes to improve quality and efficiency; Generating reports, data analyses, or data extracts and providing technical guidance to support laboratory operations and research activities. You will receive credit for all experience material to the position, including experience gained in religious, civic, welfare, service, and organizational activities, regardless of whether you received pay. Do not copy and paste the duties or specialized experience from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position. We may verify or assess your qualifications at any time. Inflated or unsupported qualifications may affect your rating. Any misrepresentation or material omission of facts may be sufficient cause to end further consideration of your candidacy. Persons listed as knowing your past accomplishments or experience in your application may be contacted for verification purposes at any time. Verification may, but need not, begin before receiving an offer. Preview application questionnaire before you apply: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12987335

Position Overview

Interested in supporting cutting-edge vision research at the National Eye Institute? We are seeking a Laboratory Research Scientist to support molecular diagnostics, laboratory operations, scientific data management, and quality improvement for research and clinical programs. If you have experience with laboratory research support, specimen processing, scientific data, and quality practices, we encourage you to apply.

Duties

• As a Laboratory Research Scientist, you will: Plan, coordinate, and perform complex laboratory and clinical research-support activities, including specimen handling and processing, molecular diagnostic procedures, and related laboratory operations. Maintain the quality and integrity of laboratory operations by evaluating laboratory processes, identifying discrepancies or operational issues, and implementing or recommending corrective actions and process improvements. Support scientific data management activities by collecting, validating, analyzing, and reporting laboratory and research data while ensuring data quality, accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with applicable policies. Develop, implement, and refine laboratory methods, standard operating procedures, workflows, and documentation to improve efficiency, consistency, and operational effectiveness. Coordinate laboratory operations by monitoring equipment, supplies, and inventories; supporting quality assurance and regulatory activities; and ensuring laboratory readiness. Collaborate with scientists, clinicians, and multidisciplinary teams to support research initiatives, resolve technical issues, and achieve laboratory and program objectives. Provide technical guidance and training to laboratory staff, fellows, students, and collaborators on laboratory procedures, scientific documentation, equipment use, and research-support activities.