Scientist II- Single Cell Analysis

Scientist II- Single Cell Analysis

Job ID: req4353
Employee Type: exempt full-time
Division: Cancer Research Technology Program
Facility: Frederick: ATRF
Location: 8560 Progress Dr, Frederick, MD 21701 USA

The Frederick National Laboratory is operated by Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. The lab addresses some of the most urgent and intractable problems in the biomedical sciences in cancer and AIDS, drug development and first-in-human clinical trials, applications of nanotechnology in medicine, and rapid response to emerging threats of infectious diseases.

Accountability, Compassion, Collaboration, Dedication, Integrity and Versatility; it's the FNL way.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community and provides dedicated support to NCI's intramural Center for Cancer Research (CCR). The dedicated units provide expertise in electron microscopy, protein characterization, mass spectrometry, protein expression, optical microscopy, and genomics. These research efforts are an integral part of CCR at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR), where CRTP scientists work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise.

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Single-Cell Scientist to join the Sequencing Facility Genomics Team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading and managing single cell sequencing projects, including experimental design, sample preparation, library construction, sequencing, data quality control, and technology development. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with commercial single-cell platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics and Fluent Biosciences) and a strong background in molecular biology, genomics, or a related field.

KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and perform single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, and multi-omic (CITE-seq, immune profiling) experiments using platforms such as 10x Genomics Chromium.
• Prepare and QC single-cell suspensions from various tissues or cell types.
• Optimize library preparation protocols to improve yield, quality, and throughput.
• Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to ensure proper project, sample tracking and data integrity.
• Analyze sequencing quality metrics and troubleshoot protocols and experiments as needed.
• Provide technical consultation and support to internal and external users, including study design and sample submission requirements.
• Train and mentor junior staff or collaborators in single-cell workflows and best practices.
• Stay up to date with advances in single-cell technologies and contribute to protocol development or process improvements.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

To be considered for this position, you must minimally meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below:

• Possession of a PhD degree in Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology, or a related discipline from an accredited college or university according to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
• In addition to the education requirement, a minimum of two (2) years of related experience is required.
• Demonstrated experience with 10x Genomics workflows (e.g., 3' / 5' Gene Expression, V(D)J, ATAC, CITE-seq).
• Strong understanding of NGS workflows, sample preparation, and sequencing technologies.
• Familiarity with quality control metrics and troubleshooting steps for low-input and sensitive samples.
• Excellent organizational and documentation skills with a strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates with these desired skills will be given preferential consideration:

• Experience with single-nuclei protocols and/or FFPE samples.
• Experience with Cell Culture is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of bioinformatics tools used for single-cell analysis with vendor specific tools (e.g., Cell Ranger) is a plus.
• Experience working in a core facility or service-oriented lab is highly desirable.

JOB HAZARDS

• This position is subject to working with or have potential for exposure to infectious material, requiring medical clearance and immunizations.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, color, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.

Pay and Benefits

Pay and benefits are fundamental to any career decision. That's why we craft compensation packages that reflect the importance of the work we do for our customers. Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave and Retirement. More details are available here

100,400.00 - 172,625.00

The posted pay range for this job is a general guideline and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include, but are not limited to, responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as internal equity, and alignment with market data.

The salary range posted is a full-time equivalent salary and will vary depending on scheduled hours for part time positions