Flow Cytometry/Cell Sorter Scientist – NIH – Baltimore, MD

Kelly Government Solutions is a strategic supplier and business partner to the federal government and its key suppliers. Through our partnership with the National Institutes of Health, Kelly Government Solutions offers administrative, IT, engineering, scientific, and healthcare professionals the opportunity to work with one of the most prestigious research organizations in the world. We are currently seeking a Flow Cytometry/Cell Sorter Scientist to work with the National Institutes of Health in Baltimore, MD.

This is a long-term contract position which offers:
- Competitive salary with comprehensive benefit package
- Free training and tremendous growth opportunity
- Opportunity to work at NIH, world's foremost medical research center
- Learn more about what Kelly can do for you at www.kellygovernmentsolutions.com

TASKS/SERVICES.  The contractor shall:

·       Independently serve as primary operator for cell sorting on the BD FACSAria SORP II and BioRad S3 sorter; design new protocols for sorting and optimize sorting parameters along with verification of sorting purities/efficiencies.

·       Serve as primary operator for flow cytometry analysis on BD FACSCanto II analyzer.

·       Alter PMT and filter orientations to accommodate the use of non-routine or novel fluorochromes used for immunophenotypic analysis of human peripheral blood cells, human and mouse embryonic stem cells (ES), and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), cellular organelles such as mitochondria, nuclei, or exosomes, and fluorescent proteins expressed using viral transgenes, or other fluorescent makers measuring cell cycle or cellular metabolic activities.

·       Provide backup support for complex data acquisition on the BD LSRII, including samples stained with UV-exciting dyes, cell cycle markers and fluorescent tracking/expression proteins; provide software upgrade training on instrument.

·       Serve as sorting support backup on high-speed sorters (Beckman Coulter MoFlo XDP and Sony-iCyt Reflection with 3 Highly Automated Parallel Sorters (HAPS); independently optimize high-power lasers; tune laser wavelengths to excitation frequencies necessary for novel fluorochromes or techniques; reconfigure bandpass and directional (dichroic) optical filters to appropriately measure cellular fluorescence.

·       Perform routine maintenance on instruments; resolve instrument technical issues; document usage of instruments.

·       Provide sample preparation, staining, data acquisition and analysis for a).immunophenotypic samples, b).cell cycle samples, including preparation of custom non-commercial reagents, c).assess the appropriate methodology for NIA IRP investigator samples; carry out either proof-of-principle and/or routine experiments for users in order to ensure the validity and integrity of the results and the most efficient use of IRP resources.

·       Provide support data analysis, including export and presentation of graphic files for inclusion into scientific publications.

·       Independently analyze data with flow cytometry software packages (FloJo, FCS express, MultiCycle, VenturiOne); ensure that software updates are current.

·       Maintain core laboratory records as they pertain to instrument usage and performance, including daily quality control.

·       Evaluate current/proposed protocols for validity and make modifications to NIA IRP investigator protocols to ensure the validity of the resulting experimental data; conserve reagent and sample resources.

·       Prepare educational materials for facility users; provide Pub-Med searches for a variety of alternative protocols and flow cytometric approaches to experimental questions.

·       Maintain and review core records and ensure electronic records of data on the sorters are backed up and maintained.

·       Maintain research database for laboratory unit; schedule and maintain an accurate tracking system for all activities, including research documentation.

·       Maintain a safe work environment in accordance with policies/procedures and OSHA safe laboratory practices especially when sorting biohazardous materials; ensure others are aware of the potential safety hazards.     

·       Engage in continuing scientific and technical education; participate in flow cytometry forums and discussions.

·       Develop and maintain good-working relationships with service personnel of flow cytometry-related instrumentation.

·       Observe and maintain inventory levels for laboratory supplies and equipment for the facility; generate purchase requests for needed supplies and equipment.

·       Other duties are required in support of the flow cytometry laboratory core required for either analysis and sorting of users’ samples.

REQUIREMENTS OR OTHER EXPERTISE REQUIRED.  The contractor must have:

·       Ph. D. in Biology, Life Sciences or a related discipline. Three (3) years of specialized experience plus a Master’s degree is equivalent to a Ph. D.  Five (5) years of specialized experience plus a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a Ph. D.

·       Minimum of five (5) year of experience in related field.

·       Prior experience sorting on a Beckman Coulter MoFlo high speed sorter, or sorting expertise on an FACSARIA or analysis on the FACSCanto.

·       Knowledge of managing and disposing of hazardous waste.

·       Strong communications skills, both oral and written.

·       Excellent analytical, organizational, interpersonal and time management skills.

To apply, please visit www.kellycareernetwork.com (https://kelly.secure.force.com/CandidateExperience/CandExpJobDetails?id=a7V800000003NcEEAU&searchFlag=true) or email damon.smithwick@kellyservices.com