Join the HJF Team!

The Research Assistant II is to perform research in collaboration with others for projects. The Research Assistant provides laboratory and technical support to senior technical and professional staff, and helps to carry out research projects in a laboratory enviroment.

This position will be in support of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. The opening is for a Research Assistant II position in the Young-Baird laboratory at Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD. Current research projects in the lab are broadly focused on gene expression regulation in the context of cellular stress and the role of protein synthesis dysregulation in human disease. The group utilizes multiple model systems including yeast, induced pluripotent stem cells, neurons, and various immortalized mammalian cell lines to address the fundamental mechanisms by which gene expression is regulated. By combining next generation sequencing with molecular, biochemical, and structure-function studies, the laboratory aims to elucidate how mutations in the mRNA translational machinery and dysregulation of protein synthesis contribute to disease, while identifying and exploring new avenues for therapeutic development. Candidates with mammalian cell culture experience and a background in biology, chemistry, or a related STEM field are encouraged to apply.

Please review these sample publications:

Young-Baird et al., Suppression of MEHMO Syndrome Mutation in eIF2 by Small Molecule ISRIB, Molecular Cell, 2020.

Young and Wek, Upstream Open Reading Frames Differentially Regulate Gene-Specific Translation in the Integrated Stress Response, Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2016.

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.

Performs laboratory research projects, including collection and organization of data. Makes detailed observations on experiments.
• Follows laboratory protocols and provides basic data analysis.
• Maintains compliance with established laboratory safety and other procedures.
• Assists in the preparation of reports, publications, and presentations.
• Follows instructions and standard operating procedures to perform expected tasks. May provide basic instruction to other lab staff.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Work Environment

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

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree.
• Minimum of 3-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of and experience with standard laboratory techniques, particularly mammalian cell culture.
• Ability to follow general instructions.
• Good communication and analytical skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check

Physical Capabilities

• Ability to stand or sit at a computer for prolonged periods

Some HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

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.