Research Scientist

JOB SUMMARY:

BASIC REQUIREMENTS:

• Master's degree from an accredited university in a biological discipline with 3+ years’ professional experience or a Doctoral degree with 0-3 years’ of experience.
• Laboratory experience in genomics, molecular biology, microbiology/plant biology, biochemistry/analytical chemistry, omics sample preparation, and omics data analysis.
• Familiarity with best practices for working with hazardous materials and willingness to adhere to NASA-defined processes.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and command line computer operating systems such as Linux, Unix, or R.
• Ability to communicate effectively with scientists, engineers, and external scientific service providers from a wide range of technical backgrounds.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills as well as analytical problem-solving abilities.
• Track record of communicating scientific results through conference presentations and peer-reviewed journal articles.
• Capacity to work independently and efficiently with minimal instruction.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment.

• Complete experimental research to determine spaceflight experiment design requirements, develop/build the flight payload, and prepare samples for omics analysis.
• Support science components of flight operations that may require travel and/or extended hours.
• Conceive and design laboratory experiments and actively participate in project planning.
• Generate, record, analyze, and compile experimental data.
• Complete statistical analysis of whole genome sequences, transcriptome sequences, proteomics, and metabolomics data.
• Submit data to appropriate public databases.
• Prepare figures for presentation/publication and collaborate with other scientists in publishing research findings.
• Draft scientific materials for public outreach and/or publication.
• Present research at scientific conferences.
• Maintain a safe and organized laboratory area.
• Perform laboratory duties including management of materials and supplies, equipment, and operations.
• Identify materials and equipment needed for experiments, obtain product information, identify vendors, and assist in the preparation of material and supply acquisition.
• Oversee general state of the laboratory, including scheduled waste removal, decontamination of surfaces, and instrument calibration/upkeep.
• Carry out assigned duties in a manner consistent with defined safety policies and report any safety incidents, potential hazards, or close calls. Assist with identifying and eliminating any unsafe conditions.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Occasionally – Squatting/Crouching, Climbing, Kneeling
• Often – Reaching, Standing, Sitting, Walking, Stooping, Pushing, Pulling, Talking, Hearing, Seeing
• Lifting/Moving Requirements – Minimum of 25 pounds occasionally