Gene Delivery Systems Immunologist
What you'd do
NIST is seeking a biologist to characterize and compare viral and non-viral gene delivery systems. You will analyze complex biological datasets to benchmark vehicle efficiency and safety. This highly collaborative role works across cross-functional teams to accelerate next-generation genetic medicines. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.
Major duties
As a Gene Delivery Systems Immunologist, you will: Advance measurement capabilities and platform reliability for characterizing viral and non-viral gene delivery systems. Utilize diverse cytometer platforms to design and conduct rigorous research that improves characterization precision. Develop wet-lab procedures and specialized cell culture approaches to establish quantitative measurements for health and bioscience applications. Engage key stakeholders to identify high-impact opportunities for assay validation, control material development, and standardized procedural guidelines.
What you need to qualify
Basic Requirements: Degree: biological sciences, agriculture, natural resource management, chemistry, or related disciplines appropriate to the position. OR Combination of education and experience: Courses equivalent to a major, as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education. AND In addition to the basic requirements: Applicants must also have 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST) level. Specialized experience is defined as demonstrated expertise in molecular biology and mammalian cell culture, with specialized hands-on experience utilizing flow cytometry to evaluate immunology pathways and optimize gene delivery systems. OR Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR A combination of graduate education and specialized experience as defined in the additional requirements. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant Reconsideration
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